Lincoln in the Bardo

Hans Vollman, a naked man with an erection and a dented head, tells the story of his death. At 46 years old, he married an 18-year-old who was nervous to consummate their marriage. He gave her space, and over time they became good friends. She made his household come alive, and he took care of her. Before long, she left him a note that she was ready to have sex. The first night they shared a bed, they only held one another; they agreed to go further the next night. But the next day, Hans was hit in the head with a fallen ceiling beam, delaying the consummation of the marriage for his recovery. Frustrated, he complained in his bedroom, but curiously his doctor and wife didn’t notice him.

Mrs. Lincoln plans to do away with state dinners because they’re too expensive. Instead, she will host three large receptions, which are more cost-effective. Many abolitionists have skipped the receptions, believing it inappropriate to attend a party while the country is in a civil war. Willie, one of the President’s sons, catches a cold while playing with his pony. The cold develops into a burning fever on the night of one of his mother’s parties.