Reading "The best of Betty" to me was intriguing. A woman perhaps in her later years, bitter and unwavering. Dedicated to solving or ,at least offering assistance, in solving everyone else's problems. It was interesting to note the replies that she wrote to these women. It seemed as though she had done it for years and was basically sick of dealing with every one's day to day complaints. I think in some way she related her own day to day complaints and ailments to theirs. I think all in all, the advice she gave was nothing more than her thoughts and her possible results of experience. I think she uses this column as an escape from her own life, she writes to herself and even goes as far to insult herself on paper. I think she is crazy. It isn't until the ending of the column that she in turn, starts to realize that she is lonely, in despair, and in need of a change. Looking forward I think that Betty just needs some compassion and understanding. As do us all.
Shawna, I thought your post was thoughtful (still a little short). I'm happy you appreciated the story. Betty is one I read over and over, learning something new each time. I can see a little of "Betty" in myself sometimes.
ReplyDeleteIt's fascinating to see her character develop, although we are only able to read her responses. And yes, we do all need understanding, don't we?