Obsession

The theme of obsession runs throughout the novel. Barbara reveals a history of obsessive thoughts and friendships. Barbara's friendship with Jennifer Dodd is an example. At first, Barbara claims that she does not know why the friendship went bad. She states that Jennifer said Barbara was too intense, and then Jennifer threatened to take legal action if Barbara came near her. Barbara assumes it has to do with Jennifer's new boyfriend, Jason. In bits and pieces, Barbara gradually gives away her part in the falling out. Barbara says that she was very polite to Jason and acted interested in everything he said. She then states that she was very careful about explaining to Jennifer that Jason was not a good fit for her. In Barbara's mind, there is no connection between what she told Jennifer about Jason and Jennifer's later treatment of her.

The idea that Jennifer may...