PART. III -Buttered Side Down

“The chapter from ‘Buttered Side Down’ titled ‘What She Wore’ delves into the complexities of dressing characters in literature, focusing on the protagonist, Sophy Epstein. Sophy, a young, underpaid shoe clerk in a downtown loft, dons a provocatively tight and sleazy black dress, much to the internal disapproval of the protagonist. This attire showcases her societal and economic struggles, symbolizing her rebellion against the plight of overwork and underpayment prevalent among women of her standing.

Sophy’s attire not only reveals her financial constraints but also her defiance against societal norms, especially evident in her interaction with Louie, a fellow shoe clerk from Oskaloosa, Iowa, whose traditional and conservative outlook contrasts sharply with Sophy’s city-hardened cynicism. Louie, inexperienced in the ways of the city, is taken aback by Sophy’s dress, which reflects her personality and life’s hardships. His attempts to convince Sophy to adopt a more conservative attire are met with resistance, as her dress serves as armor in her battle for respect and survival in the harsh urban environment.

The narrative highlights the disparity between the protagonist’s and Sophy’s backgrounds and values, showcasing their differing responses to urban life’s challenges. Sophy’s low-cut dress becomes a focal point of the story, representing the broader societal issues of class disparity, gender expectations, and the struggle for identity and respect. It serves as a symbol of her individuality, defiance, and the societal pressures that shape the personas of those living on the economic fringes.

The chapter concludes with a sense of realization and change for both characters. Louie secures a better job through a chance encounter, suggesting a turn in his fortunes, while Sophy remains bound by her circumstances, her attire a constant reminder of her struggle and resilience. The chapter skillfully uses fashion as a narrative device to explore themes of poverty, gender norms, and the search for dignity in a relentless urban landscape.”