In Chapter 37, how does the consumption or abuse of alcohol come into play?

The frequent use or abuse of alcohol comes into play again in Chapter 37 in several ways. First, there is the Ku Klux Klan sniper sipping whiskey prior to his attempt to shoot Jake. Then comes the excessive reliance on alcohol by Jake and his compatriots subsequent to his near miss and the serious injury of the National Guardsman. There is also Lucien's anger at needlessly keeping Dr. Bass sober all night rather than concern for the welfare of Jake or the maimed Guardsman.