Terry

Admittedly, I enjoy the occasional Lifetime Movie. I just happened to be watching one this afternoon that reminded me of this book. The title was “7 Things to Do Before I Turn 30” and it really ended up being very dull. However, The Price of Salt and the film shared one common theme, a man being in love with a woman regardless of how he is treated. In the film, the man proposed, was rejected, followed the woman across several states, and clung to any hope that she may someday be as in love with him as he is with her. Similarly, Richard seems to dote on Theresa no matter what she does or says. I find this affection unwarranted and frustrating. Richard waits for some sign or look that Theresa may be less than indifferent to his presence. He asks, “Do you love me at all, Terry?” to which she replies, “I don’t love you, but I like you,” (58). It seems that she is stringing him along for no particular reason, and it seems that Richard is heading toward heartbreak.
Another point that I noticed was how the bulk of important information is not delivered through dialogue. Large paragraphs full of details and back-story are how the audience learns the most about Terry. I find this an interesting choice for Highsmith to make simply because Terry’s interactions with people are so important. She says a great deal with her language and interactions. I appreciate it though, because it helps the book to keep a fast pace and continued interest. The way Highsmith writes makes Terry a rich character in a short period of time. Also, I find it interesting that Terry’s last name is Belivet, because when I first read the name, I read it to be “believe it”. Although I was incorrect, it kind of made sense because Terry has such a difficult time believing anything will happen. I am not sure that this is very significant, but I found it interesting.
Finally, I wanted to discuss Terry’s job, not at the toy department, but her actual profession of set design. I hope that the other students who are knowledgeable in theater might be able to shed some light on the task of deigning a set. Does she need to understand history, art, etc.? Or is it more painting and designing? I just think it would be interesting to know what she aspires to do for a living.