In the Dream House

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2019

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Summary

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Overture-Part 1, Chapter 18

Part 1, Chapters 19-34

Part 2, Chapters 35-50

Part 2, Chapters 51-74

Part 3, Chapters 75-89

Part 3, Chapters 90-107

Part 4, Chapters 108-127

Part 5, Chapters 128-144

Key Figures

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Part 5, Chapters 128-144Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 5

Chapter 128 Summary: “Dream House as Nightmare on Elm Street”

Seven years have passed since Machado’s breakup, yet she still experiences panic attacks and a fear that an “unseen monster” is coming for her. She has not fully healed from the trauma of the Dream House, and she often dreams of the events.

Chapter 129 Summary: “Dream House as Talisman”

Because Machado’s ex-partner moved to Iowa City for an MFA program, Machado often saw her in the neighborhood immediately following their breakup. Machado and Val begin dating. When Machado confesses the panic that seeing her ex-partner causes in her, Val sends her a vial of angelic root, meant as a talisman of protection. Machado does not believe in the power of such talismans yet wears it anyway, as it reminds her that Val cares for her. However, the vial also reminds her that nothing will truly keep her safe.

Chapter 130 Summary: “Dream House as Myth”

Machado tells more people her story of the Dream House. She notices that some will listen, others will become closed-off, and others will doubt what she says. She feels frustrated and desperate.