Medium is the message

From the outset, the events which influence the young Serge are scientific rather than emotional, factual rather than superstitious, predetermined rather than wilful.

C opens with the arrival of Dr Learmont at Versoie, the home of the Carrefax family which also houses the father‘s school for the deaf, and his attendance at the labour of Serge’s mother. “Painful?” Learmont asks her when it’s (her contraction) over.