Study Guide

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Chapter 16

By Douglas Adams

Chapter 16

Arthur gets woken up by an argument between Ford and Zaphod. Zaphod argues that the planet is Magrathea, while Ford argues that Magrathea is just a myth.
Zaphod tries to prove the planet is Magrathea by pointing out distinctive features, like the fact that it has two suns. What a show-offy planet.
Arthur is amazed by the planet, but he also wishes he had a cup of tea. Tea is a drug that has ruined Britain. Just say no.
While Ford and Zaphod continue to argue and look at the planet, Arthur adds: "The suspense is killing me" (51). This leads the narrator to note that stress is a serious problem, so to avoid suspense, the narrator will tell the reader a few things right now:
(A) The planet is Magrathea.
(B) Missiles are about to be launched at the Heart of Gold, but no one will be seriously hurt—though Trillian's mice cage will get broken.
(C) Someone will get a bruise on his or her arm, but to preserve some suspense, the narrator won't tell us who.

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