The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter

by Carson McCullers

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Student Question

Do Mick Kelly and Harry Minowitz have sex in chapter 9 of part two in "The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter"?

Quick answer:

In Chapter 9 of Part Two, Mick Kelly and Harry Minowitz do not have sex. They develop a closer bond through conversations about serious topics like fascism and Hitler, leading to a playful argument and wrestling. This encounter ends with them feeling slightly embarrassed and confused, and they part ways without having a sexual encounter. Although they do have a sexual relationship later, it does not occur at this point in the novel.

Expert Answers

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It is true that in the ninth chapter of part two Mick and Harry become closer in this chapter.  She and Harry have a conversation about Hitler, and fascism.  Harry and Mick have had to sacrifice things that were important to them and they are building a bond of mutual trust.  Mick decides that things are too serious and she begins to pretend to argue with Harry.  She pretends to start a fight.  They run into the ally and begin to wrestle.  The two of them struggle and then stop.  They look at each other in a new light.  Slightly embarrassed and confused they separate and go different directions.  They do not have sex here.  They do have a sexual relationship, but it is not at this point in the novel.

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