In Chapter 33 of Mother Night, the protagonist recalls his third and final meeting with Colonel Frank Wirtanen, whom he refers to as his Blue Fairy Godmother. The meeting takes place in a desolate, dimly lit shop across from Jones’ house, where the protagonist, along with Resi and George Kraft, has been hiding. As he approaches the shop, the protagonist is filled with hesitation and a sense of dread, anticipating the many potential threats that could be lurking nearby, from American Legion members to Israeli paratroopers. With a Luger—an Iron Guard’s pistol—clutched tightly in his hand, he proceeds cautiously, using the darkness to his advantage as he stealthily moves towards the back of the shop, all the while ready for any confrontation that might arise. The protagonist feels like an infantryman, bracing for the worst, reflecting on the nature of humanity and how people are often driven by the instinct to survive, much like soldiers in battle.

Upon reaching the rear of the shop, the protagonist is struck by a serene image. Through a window, he sees Colonel Wirtanen, now appearing older and more peaceful, reminiscent of a Buddha in his calmness, waiting for him. As the protagonist enters, he is surprised to see Wirtanen still active, not retired as he expected. In response, Wirtanen explains that he had been called back to duty, specifically to handle matters related to the protagonist. The revelation raises the protagonist’s curiosity, and he begins to wonder why Wirtanen, a man who has played such a pivotal role in his life, would now return to engage with him once again. As their conversation unfolds, the protagonist tries to understand the reasons behind this renewed interest, feeling both suspicion and a sense of inevitability about the path that has been laid out before him.

The dialogue between the two men deepens as the protagonist presses Wirtanen for more information. While he can understand why the Israelis might want to involve him in their affairs, he is perplexed by the Russians’ motives for seeking him out. Wirtanen shares unsettling news about Resi Noth and George Kraft, revealing that they have both been communist agents under surveillance since 1941. This revelation shocks the protagonist, as he learns that the U.S. government has allowed Resi into the country under the guise of an innocent investigation, while in reality, she has been closely monitored for potential ties to the broader communist agenda. The implications of this information weigh heavily on the protagonist, who now realizes the full scope of the entanglements around him. He is forced to confront the chilling reality that his life has been manipulated by forces much larger than he initially understood, as espionage and political maneuvering have shaped his existence in ways he cannot escape.

In this chapter, the narrative delves into the intricacies of espionage, trust, and the complexities of human motives. The protagonist is faced with the reality that his past actions and affiliations have placed him in a precarious position, one where every relationship is shrouded in suspicion and every move is scrutinized. As the layers of deceit are peeled back, the protagonist must navigate a world where personal relationships are often mere facades, and true motives are hidden behind political agendas. The chapter underscores the dark realities of life in a world burdened by political tension, where personal survival and moral integrity are constantly at odds. The protagonist is caught in a web of lies, unable to distinguish friend from foe, as his past is brought to light, revealing the harsh consequences of his involvement in the world of espionage and betrayal.