Disgrace

Content Warning: The novel and this guide discuss sexism, sexual assault, stalking, sexual grooming, violence, and racism.

David leaves Lucy’s house. He returns to Cape Town, and on the way, he passes by the home of Melanie’s family. He goes in looking for Melanie’s father, who is not at home; Melanie’s sister, a young girl named Desiree, receives him at the house. David feels attracted to Desiree, who has no idea who he is. David imagines himself having sex with Desiree and Melanie at the same time. Next, David heads to the school where Mr. Isaacs works and finds him there. He wants to have a heart-to-heart talk with Mr. Isaacs, but he realizes that he has no idea what to actually say. He tries to explain his relationship with Melanie as a sudden, unplanned adventure. He tells Mr. Isaacs that people once worshipped fire and that Melanie lit a fire inside David’s heart. Mr. Isaacs impatiently interrupts him, asking what he wants. David asks about Melanie and her father says that she has returned to college. Mr. Isaacs wants to know what David has been doing since being forced to resign from his job. David says he has been trying to write a book while living with his daughter, to which Mr.