In The Quiet American, the theme of sexuality is closely related to the theme of innocence. Fowler, the older of the two main characters, has the sexual experience and cynicism of a man who's seen it all and is simply holding on while he waits for death. The sexuality of Pyle, the younger character, is as underdeveloped as his comprehension of international politics. He knows no more than what he's read in books. Because Pyle and Fowler desire the same woman, their respective sexualities come to war.
Questions About Sexuality and Sexual Identity
- How does Pyle's inexperience with sex affect how he sees Phuong?
- How does Phuong understand her sexuality?
- Is Pyle really concerned with Phuong's interests?
- Does the language and cultural distance between Fowler and Phuong limit their relationship? How so?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Fowler understands Phuong's wants and needs better than Pyle.
Pyle understands Phuong's wants and needs better than Fowler.