Let me just say that I can't stand Azar. He comes up in the most disturbing stories, like when he blew up Ted Lavender's puppy (page 35) or when he kicked O'Brien in the head after their trick on Jorgenson (page 206). So when I re-read this chapter and the way Azar mocks the dancing girl, I felt like I'd like to say some not-so-nice things to Azar. Despite this, I don't know what it's like being in war; I know from this story that it changes people, but I am ignorant to the ways in which being out there messes with one's head and personality.
The dancing girl is a symbol for anyone who has ever lost a loved one, especially in a war. She dealt with the death of her family by putting "the palms of her hands against her ears... and [dancing] sideways for a short while..." (page 129). 
"Her face had a dreamy look, quiet and composed." This just suggests the human individuality of dealing of loss and disaster. We all have our own ways of coping: some weep, some grow silent and close off the world, some celebrate the life lost, some dance.
"Her face had a dreamy look, quiet and composed." This just suggests the human individuality of dealing of loss and disaster. We all have our own ways of coping: some weep, some grow silent and close off the world, some celebrate the life lost, some dance. 
I couldn't agree more; I want to punch Azar in the face as well! About the dancing girl...beautifully said.
ReplyDeleteand some make fun of innocent girls, I guess.
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