Cloud Atlas

Content Warning: This section depicts slavery and discusses racism.

Timothy Cavendish is an English book editor. After he recounts the time when “a trio of teenettes” (147) accosted him in the street, he remembers an “infamous” night at a literature awards show. Cavendish was the editor of a book titled Knuckle Sandwich, written by a violent criminal named Dermot Hoggins, nicknamed Duster. The book was panned by critics, one of whom is at the same awards party. Duster seeks out this critic, Felix Finch, argues with him, and throws Finch from a balcony, killing him. The incident causes Duster’s book sales to dramatically increase due to the “sweet, free publicity” (152). Cavendish is pleased with his financial success. With Duster in prison, however, his brothers visit Cavendish to demand money. The three brothers—Eddie, Mozza, and Jarvis—want £50,000 by the next day or they’ll hurt Cavendish.

Cavendish panics. He tries to raise the money, but no one can help him. In desperation, he calls his brother. Denholme Cavendish has a strained relationship with his brother. Although he doesn’t have the money, he offers to arrange a place where Cavendish can “lie low” until the incident passes. Cavendish accepts and takes a train to Hull in Northern England.