Ordinary People: Chapter 31 Summary & Analysis

Beth packs her things. She decides to leave Cal because she resents his pity for her. He wants to talk to her about the situation, but she refuses to let him worry about her the same way he worries about Conrad. Cal questions how much how much he really knows – or knew – about his wife, realizing that she is deeply secretive and self-controlling in a way he cannot understand. He also considers the shock with which Howard, Ellen, and Ray respond to news of the breakup. All of them believed that Cal and Beth had a perfect relationship. But he, like them, were unsure of how their relationship could falter.

After breakfast, Conrad and Cal go out onto the porch. Cal feels cold, but Conrad is excited about the warmth and the approach of spring. Cal tells Conrad about his plan to sell the house; he feels it's "always been too big," and the money could be put to better use. Clumsily, Cal also mentions that Beth is "taking a trip" for a while. Conrad doesn't understand why his father isn't going with her. He grows increasingly bitter as he probes Cal for answers. Father and son trade harsh words – Conrad accusing Cal of being overprotective, Cal accusing Conrad for not being sensitive enough.

After a stunned silence, Cal apologizes for yelling at Conrad. Conrad responds to the contrary; he appreciates his father's decision to put his foot down. Cal explains that he never wanted to be too hard on Conrad, and that Buck was the one who needed the most discipline. Conrad disagrees. He would have appreciated the extra attention from his father. After laying out their grievances and admitting their misunderstandings, Conrad tells Cal that he loves him. The phrase catches him off guard at first, but as he fights back tears Cal returns the sentiment. Neither is sure whether Beth will return, but they appreciate their newfound connection with one another.