Oskar's supposed son Kurt turns one in 1942. Oskar is not around for his son's second birthday, though he has long been planning to introduce his son to his “drumming” (215). In 1941, he meets Bebra and Roswitha. By this time, Bebra has reached the rank of captain in the propaganda wing of the German Army. He has the respect of the other officers. Noticing this, Oskar feels less self-conscious about his own height. Oskar speculates about his own future and his potential achievements. He rides in a car with Bebra and Roswitha. As Bebra drives, he and Roswitha touch their hands together in the back seat. Bebra is watching them in the rear-view mirror, Oskar notices, but says nothing even though he is “quite jealous by nature” (217).

They stop at a café and Roswitha invites Oskar to run away with them to their travelling circus. They have been booked to play for the soldiers on the front line. Oskar mulls over the idea. He does not want to seem hasty, but he eventually accepts. Oskar returns home to pack his bag. He walks out of the house by bidding a silent farewell to the family and neighbors who have shaped his life.