One reason Goodbye, Columbus is a summer-to-fall romance instead of a long-lasting relationship is because Neil and Brenda can't stop manipulating each other. And when they aren't manipulating each other, they are accusing each other of being manipulative. Okay, maybe we're exaggerating; love wouldn't be such a big theme if that were the case. From the swimming pool game Brenda uses to get Neil to say he loves her to Neil's constant grasping for reassurance, the novella shows manipulation operating in subtle and not-so-subtle ways. This theme is very visible in Neil and Brenda's relationship, but also in the various parent/child relationships we see. While Neil learns his heart's desire at the end of the story, he hasn't necessarily learned a lesson about manipulation. Or maybe he has. You tell us.
Questions About Manipulation
- Why does Neil feel he has to let Julie win at basketball that night?
- When he tries to beat her at ping-pong is he teaching her a lesson, or furthering the cycle of manipulation?
- Why does Brenda feel the need to make Neil tell her he loves her? Is this manipulation or an intimate game between lovers?
- Does Aunt Gladys manipulate Neil?
- Is Neil justified in manipulating the library system to keep the Gauguin book in the boy's hands?
Chew on This
Brenda takes advantage of her father's love.
Mrs. Patimkin manipulates Brenda by keeping her on edge and in a constant state of disgrace.