Worlds Collide

Russell Banks story represents the idea that you should not seek love outside the confines of your social group. Ron and Sarah were from completely different worlds, he a professional, financially comfortable; she, a laborer, and financially challenged. Additionally he was really handsome, and she really ugly. Beauty and the beast, if you will. If it weren't for alcohol they never would have met.

She was out with friends drinking and accepted a dare to break the norm and speak to Ron. I think, out of curiosity he welcomed the conversation. She felt triumphant as she looked back at her friends having broken "the barrier". He felt inexplicably obsessed with her. However, knowing the danger that might result from continuing his pursuit, he avoided going where he knew she would be (the bar where they met).

As fate would have it they did meet again and without further play did what they had both been determined to do. In this they saw each other as equal, not just stripped of their
clothes, but their sensibilities as well. However this equality did not last as their character came into play. He tried to become part of her world, but could not give up his independence. She wanted him to be a part of her world. I don't think she thought she could live in his though, but she didn't care. After it ended, I think he felt guilty about it. She just did what she needed to do to survive, like going back with her abusive husband.

There were constant references to appearance which amplified the class difference. Attractive meant educated, professional, financially sound. Ugly meant uneducated, laborer, financially stressed.