The Luckiest Girl Analysis

True love serves as a critical part of human nature; so much so, as to where one may commit immoral actions during the pursuit of such love. Cynthia Benjamin recaptures this classical situation in her short story, The Luckiest Girl, where the antagonist, David Allen strives for complete dominance over his relationship with the protagonist, Anita Wade. He manipulates her through emotional, social, and physical techniques.

David controls Anita’s emotions with the intention of preserving the relationship. Firstly, David compliments Anita. “He thinks [Anita] is beautiful” (September 18) when nobody else “ever [says] that to [her] before” (September 18). Accordingly, David gains Anita’s admiration. By the same token, David pampers Anita with

In addition, he promises to “buy [her] a diamond ring” and “take [her] on a round-the-world cruise” (October 4). Flattered by his romantic gestures, Anita acknowledges these gifts as David’s affection towards her. On the other hand, she feels guilty towards David spending his college money towards expensive gifts. In fact, Anita’s guilt intensifies as “he doesn’t … care” (October 18) about the financial consequences, but only her. Now, she feels morally compelled to obey David’s commands. Soon after, she “[quits] the basketball team” (October 18) “[knowing] it [is] what he wants” (October 18). By complying with David’s commands, she pleases him, and her guilt diminishes. Above all, David introduces a flashback of his mother “[walking] out on his dad” (October 11) because “his dad [is] rough with her” (October 11) as an excuse for his assault on Anita. Additionally, he attributes his misconduct to his mother’s departure. Astonished, Anita proceeds

Firstly, he commands her to stop “talking to any … guys” (September 18). David’s fear of Anita’s demeanor instigating the students “[to take] [her] away from him” (September 18) makes his actions justifiable; hence, Anita forgives him. However, the second incident regarding Joyce and Debbie exposes his desire for segregation. Whether his fear of Joyce and Debbie “[introducing] [Anita] to other guys that will break [them] up” (October 8), justifies his demands, his second command for Anita, “to quit the basketball team” (October 8) validates his insecurity. By isolating Anita, David presents himself as her only trustworthy and legitimate “friend.” Worst of all, everyone has regards for David, even Anita’s parents. In fact, “[they] really like David” (October 8). Consequently, Anita cannot quit the relationship without the repercussions that would ensue. Everyone would side with David and blame Anita for his future suicide. David’s positive attributes blind everyone from his abusive and controlling nature; therefore, dismissing him as the problem. The driving force of David’s social manipulation stems from his insecurity of the