Money 1

“Money” features an odd, not too appealing, fat man as the main character, John. Narcissistic and rude, I can’t help but finding myself agreeing with John’s behavior. His off-beat humor relaxes me and, as if I have no choice in the matter, end up liking and enjoying him very much. Reminiscent of Holden Caulfield from Salinger’s “The Catcher in the Rye,” cynicism allows the reader to laughingly agree, rationalizing and legitimizing the thoughts and actions of John Self. For instance, when discussing Selina’s style of wardrobe John gives his thoughts, saying

“The men wince and watch, wince and watch. They buckle and half turn away. They shut their eyes and clutch their nuts. And sometimes, when they see me cruise up behind my little friend and slip an arm around her trim and muscular waist, they look at me as if to say -- Do something about it, will you? Don’t let her go about the place looking like that. Come on, it’s your responsibility.” (19)

Oddly, most men wouldn’t imagine the middle-aged men staring down their girlfriend to be disappointed in such a lack of a patriarchy. Though with John, he isn’t concerned of the unwanted attention. No, it’s not about Selina, it’s about him and someway he isn’t meeting his own expectations. A funny and meaningful introspection into the psyche of John Self.