So the Escapist seems to mean something different to each kid at this point. For Clay, it’s a way to make money, make it big, and then make it out of Brooklyn. For Kavalier, it’s a way to make it big, but for the purpose of freeing his family and bringing them to America. You get the sense that they are both desperate in a way, but for Kavalier the stakes are that much higher. But what we haven’t seen yet is Clay really identify in a compelling way with Kavalier in terms of what he is going through because of what is family is facing.
Which brings me to the relationship between Kavalier and Clay. What do you guys make of it at this point?
Frankly, I’m starting to find Clay to be a bit of a shit, who is only slightly more sympathetic than Anapol – the very shrewd, very fat one-time peddler of cheap novelty gags who is becoming rich off the comic trade thanks to the efforts of these young men. For instance, take this exchange between Kavalier and Clay, which occurs after Kavalier learns of his father’s death:
“Could there be some mistake?” Sammy said.
“Such things are always possible,” Joe said bitterly.
“Oh, Jesus,” Sammy said” ...I hate to tell my mother this.” (pg. 190)
Maybe I’m reading too much into this, but hell – that’s a pretty self-centered thing to say to a guy who just lost his father, and is likely facing the prospect of having his entire family wiped out. Generally speaking, Clay doesn't seem to be a terribly likable guy. So what do you guys make of Clay, and their relationship? Is he a clueless, self- absorbed manipulator, or just someone who means well despite his general loutish behavior?
Ryan
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