Broken Country

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, child death, suicidal ideation, substance use, and sexual content.

Bobby is born on the kitchen floor during a violent storm that cuts the farm off from outside help. When Beth’s labor begins rapidly, the phone lines are down and a fallen telegraph pole blocks the road, leaving her alone until 13-year-old Jimmy arrives home from school. Jimmy calmly takes charge, helping Beth through the delivery with surprising capability, comparing it to his experience with lambing. Despite his youth, he knows to turn the baby over, slap its bottom for the first cry, and assist with the afterbirth.

Frank returns home to find Beth sitting on the floor with their newborn son and Jimmy beside them. The three share a moment of wonder at what they’ve accomplished together. As Frank holds his son for the first time, his face transforms with elation, and Beth sees the same pure love that she felt upon meeting their child.

In 1968, Nina’s father hosts an engagement party with an open bar at the pub to celebrate Nina and Jimmy’s upcoming wedding. The villagers celebrate enthusiastically, with many congratulating Frank as well since he’s well respected in the community for his generosity and helpfulness.