Sunrise on the Reaping (A Hunger Games Novel) (The Hunger Games)
Page 239 Review
The Power of Female Friendship: A Commentary on Beauty and Support
This excerpt offers a glimpse into the dynamics of female friendship, showcasing moments of shared purpose, subtle competition, and genuine support. It’s a small window into a world where beauty is both a performance and a shared art form.
Setting the Scene
The scene is set amidst chaos, a rush to be on time. “That, at least, I can remedy,” Drusilla declares, setting a tone of efficient control. Herding the group with “Come on, you lot, let’s try to make it to at least one event on time,” immediately establishes a sense of urgency and perhaps a touch of exasperation. This hurried atmosphere suggests a glamorous, fast-paced lifestyle, where appearances are paramount and punctuality is a challenge.
The Beauty Ritual: More Than Just Makeup
The core of the excerpt revolves around the application and critique of makeup. Proserpina’s act of shoving “a makeup box into Effie’s hands. ‘Touch-ups!’” signifies Effie’s role as the designated beautifier. The dialogue about lipstick and blush highlights the performative aspect of beauty. “I’m on it,” promises Effie. “For everybody!” She gives Lou Lou, who’s baring her teeth, a worried look. “Maybe a lighter shade of lipstick for you.” This isn’t merely about applying cosmetics; it’s about crafting an image, subtly adjusting appearances to fit a specific standard.
Subtle Competition and Shared Standards
Maysilee’s contribution, “And tone down the blush,” shows a level of comfort and familiarity within the group, suggesting a shared understanding of what constitutes ‘good’ makeup. The exchange is polite, but underlying it is the recognition that individual choices can be improved upon by the collective. “Exactly,” agrees Effie. For a moment, they’re just two girls on a mission to beautify the world. Effie holds up a compact for her opinion. “I’m thinking maybe a peach?” This brief moment transcends the surface-level critiques and reveals a deeper, shared objective: to enhance beauty according to their collective standards.
The Power of Observation and Attention to Detail
Effie’s attention to detail is remarkable. “Hold on.” Effie reaches over and removes a broken feather from Maysilee’s boa. “There. You’re perfect.” This simple act of removing a stray feather elevates the scene beyond mere makeup application. It demonstrates care and a willingness to help others present their best selves. It also suggests that true beauty lies not just in flawless makeup, but in the overall presentation and attention to detail.
Insecurities and Reassurance
The question, “Is my mascara okay?” reveals underlying insecurities. The response, “Yes, but I can see it’d be a problem with those long lashes of yours,” highlights both the compliment and the potential problem. Effie’s preparedness, digging in the makeup box and handing her a little pad, showcases her proactive approach to addressing potential anxieties. “Take this in case it smudges.” This act of providing a solution reinforces the idea of support within the group.
An Accidental Moment of Connection
The climax occurs when Drusilla accidentally sends the makeup box flying. “Drusilla starts to haul Effie to the elevator, sending the makeup box to the floor. It cracks open and tubes of color roll across the burnt-orange carpet.” This moment of chaos is unexpectedly followed by an act of kindness. “I lean over and collect them, returning it all to Effie, who looks slightly surprised.” The narrator’s gesture of collecting the scattered makeup tubes is significant. It signifies empathy and a willingness to help, even in a situation that could be easily overlooked. Effie’s surprise suggests that such gestures of kindness are not always expected, adding another layer of complexity to the group dynamics.
Heading for something more ?
This small excerpt encapsulates the intricate dynamics of female friendship, highlighting the performance of beauty, the subtle competition, and the genuine support that exists within the group. It leaves the reader curious about the events they are rushing to, and the relationships between the characters. Who are they? Where are they going? And what challenges will they face together?
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