Berendt uses dialogue to show class divisions and characterization to show the excogitation of reality by savannah inhabitants that does not always mousse with reality. We see this when Chablis marches down the street crippled traffic, "The motorists were unaw ar, of course, that the spectacle they were witnessing was that of the Grand Empress of Savannah parading every wig, gown, and gaff in her imperial wardrobe," (Berendt, 1994, p. 179). other element that helps convey this other-worldly environment of Savannah is the way the designer juxtaposes the high-bred with the low-brow. There may be an elite handful that see Savannah, but it appears they mix with the common and everyone knows everything a
bout everyone. We see that Jim Williams is carrying on an affair with a luscious street hustler half his age. We see that the author portrays these contracts in his description of setting so that even the environment of Savannah mirrors the dualistic nature of most of its inhabitant's minds and lives.
We see this when Danny the hustler and Jackie Onassis are mentioned in proximity, "Williams was identified as?a giver of delightful parties as his ?showplace' home, which Jacqueline Onassis had visited and offered to buy for $2 million. About Danny Hansford, the paper gave no information other than age," (Berendt, 1994, 247).
In conclusion, the glamorous setting, the mysterious voodooism goings on, the eccentric and wealthy characters, and the mixture of murder, luxury, and the seamier elements of life make Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil an excellent read, but I cannot help but feeling lack of respect for the main character who I am convinced killed Danny Hansford merely because he felt he had a right to by organism "superior" to him.
Berendt, J. (1994). Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil: A Savannah Story. New York: Random House.
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