Big Blonde

When the story begins, it mentions “the deferred death of a hazy widowed mother” (1). Why do you think Parker provides so little information about Hazel’s past?

Hazel notes that other women in her social circle have sad moods, and she resents the fact that when she’s sad, she’s criticized. Consider the passage below:

“There was Mrs. Florence Miller who got regular crying jags, and the men sought only to cheer and comfort her. The others spent whole evenings in grieved recitals of worries and ills; their escorts paid them deep sympathy. But she was instantly undesirable when she was low in spirits” (18).

Do you think Hazel’s perceptions are accurate? Why does she feel this way? Use evidence from the story to support your points.

What was your initial response to Hazel Morse when you started reading the story? As you continued reading, how did your impression of Hazel change?

How might Hazel Morse’s life have differed if she lived in our own time? Use evidence from the story to support your ideas.

At the beginning of the story, we learn that other than her job and her popularity with men, Hazel “never pondered if she might not be better occupied doing something else” (2). What other options might Hazel have considered as a 30-something woman living during the 1920s?

“Pardon my wet glove” (13). These are Hazel’s last words to Herbie before he leaves her for good. What do they signify? Why do you think Hazel ends the conversation this way?

When Hazel is found unconscious after overdosing on veronal and a doctor is summoned, how does the doctor react when he visits Hazel’s bedside? What kind of care does he provide? What does his response indicate about his attitude toward Hazel and/or her behavior?

As Hazel recovers from her suicide attempt, Nettie hands her a “pretty picture card” to cheer her up. What is Hazel’s response to this card? What does her response indicate about her relationship with Art and her other suitors?