Play it as it Lays, Section 1 Discusssion

Why do you think Maria never asks why Iago is evil?



Maria doesn't seem like the type of person who reflects on the motivations of her own actions or those around her. She accepts people as they are and deals with the results through avoidance or substance abuse. Therefore. I think Maria would never question Iago’s evil because she never stops to question anyone's actions, including her own.



What does this first line tell you about Maria?



The first line leads me to believe that Maria accepts the behavior of others without trying to analyze the reasons behind them.



Why is this the first line of the book?



Possibly to establish Maria as an anti-hero.



2. How is Hollywood and the film industry portrayed? Is there a significance to Maria’s acting, and the types of movies she is in?


Hollywood in this book is a small community composed of business relationships, insider deals and parties. Maria’s acting career seems to be the result of her relationship with a director, Carter, and the two latest films he has directed. This coupled with Maria’s latest offer, a new film yet again directed by Carter, leads me to believe that much her success may be a result of nepotism rather than raw acting talent.



3. What is the significance of Maria’s driving the highways? What effect does it have on her? What is her motivation for this ritual?



Maria’s addiction to driving feels like a cathartic exercise, a way to escape her demons and the people surrounding her.