Plainsong

Ike and Bobby investigate the “little pale stucco house” (90) where their mother lives. She looks “completely worn out” (90) and eventually invites the boys inside. The boys miss her and want her to come home, but their father no longer wants her to return home. She insists that she isn’t “crazy” yet, but needs more time before she can think about returning. The boys offer to bring her things, and she asks for coffee. Bobby and Ike leave. They purchase the coffee and then buy their mother a bottle of perfume using their own money. They take the gifts back to the house; their mother opens the presents and cries. 

Maggie drives out to meet the McPherons. She knocks on the door and receives no answer but can see into the messy house. In the distance, she hears a tractor. Raymond and Harold spot her and approach slowly. After they invite her into the house, Maggie asks if Victoria can stay with them. They know the girl’s family but are “dumbfounded” (98) by the request. Maggie leaves, telling the brothers to call her if they change their minds. They return to their work around the farm, though they are quieter than usual.