“[M]y stomach kind of fell as I felt how hard the world was going to be to me hereafter.”
After nearly five pages of incredibly precise detail, I feel this last line is really the whole purpose for the story. Drawing a situation like this out is something I have a hard time doing as a writer, because I like to get straight to the point. I envy Updike’s eye for detail, and also his patience. He is keen in seeing that some topics are more easily digested when they aren’t served in such a straight forward manner.
What I mean is, I interpreted this closing statement as the realization that, in quitting his job, the protagonist is taking an advancing leap of faith. Working in a place where you disagree with the procedures or coworkers so you can keep your pay check is a common issue. It seems like the appropriate thing to do is stay where you are, stay secure. And Sammy’s parents knew his boss - he was fairly secure where he was. Sometimes we need to break out and take a risk, though. Life can be hard, but how boring would it be with out some change and risks?
If this reading, however, had been straight forward and made a point like “Life is going to be hard, but you have to grow-up and take some risks,” it would be short, boring and many people may disagree. With the detailed, enticing anecdote attached to it, however, this reading can be interpreted many different ways and be enjoyable in doing so.
Nice post, Angel - the contrast between the slow-build of detail and the sudden, precise climax is integral to Updike's story.
ReplyDeleteAnd it really is a great line - captures the impulsive nature of Sammy quitting.