The Immortalists

Simon moves in with Robert, and “rises through the ranks at Corps” (79). He is no longer an understudy but becomes a full member. He performs in many shows, such as The Myth of Icarus with Robert. The pair find a rhythm together at home for two years.

Klara works at a dentist’s office and at a restaurant. In her spare time, she plans her magic show. One night while meeting Simon at an Indian restaurant, she shows him her programs. They contain photos of her grandmother who performed vaudeville and magic. One picture shows “Klara Sr. sliding from the top of the circus tent to the bottom, suspended only from a rope that she holds in her teeth” (81). This act is called the Jaws of Life. Klara Sr. performs this feat in Times Squares, but she falls halfway through and dies.

Klara is putting together an act that will contain the Jaws of Life, and she is in the midst of practicing for it. She calls the act “The Immortalist.” Simon tries to dissuade her, but she is determined to pursue it.