Caldeira discusses the world’s fascination with the enigmatic Straka. Caldeira writes that many have become more interested in Straka’s life than in his novels. Interest in Straka has risen because of numerous rumors about his life, including speculations that he was involved in assassinations, coups, conspiracies, and various subversive groups. Caldeira admits that these speculations about Straka’s life often resemble the subject matter of Straka’s books.

Caldeira’s description of Straka’s notoriety is important because it helps to bring the reader into the world of Eric and Jen. Eric and Jen, like other Straka scholars, are motivated by the question of Straka’s identity. Throughout the margins they discuss who Straka may have really been, as well as what he really did.

In the margins Jen asks Eric how long he has been studying Straka, and whether he has ever thought of doing anything else. Her question reflects her own anxiety about her imminent college graduation.

Eric explains that he has been studying Straka ever since high school, about 15 years ago. He firmly believe in his decision to study Straka, and tells Jen to fight for what she loves.

Jen asks Eric whether Straka was actually involved in the conspiracies that many say he played a part in.

Eric responds that many people did think that Straka was dangerous, and suggests that there are documents to prove it. Eric then complains that Jen’s annotations are not helping; he feels as though he is racing to finish his work on Straka.