In the doorway, S observes what he dubs “a curious ritual”–“an inverted changing-of-the-guard, with the spent man replacing the fresher one.” An exhausted, enervated old man emerges from the lower decks, blows the whistle, and takes the place of a younger sailor.

Eric and Jen’s conversation focuses on their academic life in PSU. Jen says that she stays in the library all night and hears the singing of the mockingbird. The highlight of “all night” emphasizes not only the duration of the song, but also the intensity of her work. Jen uses Straka’s description of the old, enervated sailor–“hauled himself slowly, […] moving as if he is exhausted”–to characterize her physical condition during the finals weeks, whereas Eric points out that his current condition fits right into the description.

“I’m recovering by getting my work done”, says Eric, “Lost 2 Mos. in the hospital. Got to catch up. Can’t let Moody win.” The conversation calibrates again to Eric’s quest of revenge against Prof. Moody. Eric’s profound determination is once again revealed– he is willing to beat Moody at the expense of his health.

When Eric advises Jen to focus on getting her college degree, Jen replies:

“I’ve been wondering: am I really getting this degree for myself? Or is it for my parents.”

Senioritis-striken, Jen fails to define her goals. Just as S cannot fully interpret his identity or mission but to duly obey, Jen fails to comprehend the significance of her identity as a student but is pushed to graduate. Jen’s passion for VMS’ work is revealed in her enthusiasm to research on Ship of Theseus, while pondering on her college academia.