The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1
The Name of the Wind
by Patrick Rothfuss
Contents
CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO Coppers, Cobblers and Crowds
Overview
Kvothe confronts his lingering street instincts, accepts generosity from a cobbler, and secures passage north with Roent’s caravan toward Imre. A farewell visit to Trapis momentarily threatens his sense of belonging until Trapis recognizes him, reaffirming Kvothe’s identity as he leaves Tarbean for the University.
Summary
Near noon, Kvothe enjoys being clean and fed but feels persistent unease. After ducking into alleys, he realizes the discomfort comes from moving with a crowd as a participant rather than a shadow. A glimpse of a guard triggers old fear, sending him into a nearby shop.
Inside a cobbler’s, an amiable old man fits Kvothe for shoes, reading his hard-won resilience from his scarred feet. The cobbler offers his son Jacob’s used pair for free, refusing to sell used shoes. Kvothe, moved by the kindness and his own pride, quietly leaves two copper jots and departs.
Kvothe then negotiates passage north with Roent, a stern Cealdish wagoneer: two jots, help with camp, and strict rules. He notices a beautiful dark-haired girl traveling with them and meets Derrik, a friendly worker, who remarks on Kvothe’s Siaru. Departure is set for two hours.
Before leaving, Kvothe visits Trapis’ basement. Children eye him warily, not recognizing him in clean clothes; one even tries to lift his purse. Fear spikes that he no longer belongs. Trapis returns with bread and, after assigning chores, addresses Kvothe by name, instantly restoring Kvothe’s sense of home.
Kvothe informs Trapis of his plan to leave for Imre and offers the location of his old rooftop cache for other children. Trapis embraces him, expresses pride, and invites him to return if needed. Reassured and seen, Kvothe departs Tarbean poised to begin the journey toward the University.
Who Appears
- KvotheProtagonist; overcomes street-wariness, accepts shoes, secures caravan to Imre, and receives Trapis’ parting affirmation.
- The cobblerKindly old shoemaker who gifts Kvothe used shoes, prompting Kvothe to repay with two jots.
- RoentCealdish wagoneer; sets strict travel terms; accepts Kvothe for two jots to Imre.
- TrapisCompassionate caretaker; recognizes Kvothe immediately, blesses his departure, and assigns chores to the children.
- DerrikWagon worker; friendly to Kvothe, asks about his Siaru, offers practical advice about Roent.
- The dark-haired girlYoung, striking passenger traveling with Roent and Reta; subject of Roent’s protective warning.
- RetaRoent’s wife; oversees loading and chats with the girl, signaling a family-run caravan.
- NathanBoy in Trapis’ care; seeks help for his injured brother, prompting assignments.
- AriBoy assisting Trapis; takes a squalling child from him on return.