The Crying of Lot 49 Chapter 1 Commentary

Right off the bat, this chapter had some very interesting actions and descriptions. When Oedipa first learns that she has been named the "executrix" of Pierce Inverarity's estate, Pynchon launches into a description of her response..."Oedipa stood in the living room, stared at by the greenish dead eye of the TV tube, spoke the name of God, tried to feel as drunk as possible. But this did not work." I think Pynchon is creating a bridge of shared features with the reader through this description because it is very relatable. Although the reader does not yet know what kind of relationship the pair shared, they are able to imagine themselves in a similar situation, and the responses they have when something shocks them. It took me a few times of reading the first page to really understand the background, but once I was able to I found it to be interesting. The imagery of the "greenish dead eye of the TV tube" alludes to a darker, mysterious side of their relationship and leaves the reader wondering how Pierce died and why he left his estate to the trust of Oedipa. As the chapter continues on, some of these questions are answered, but additional questions are also formed. I began to question the dynamic of Oedipa and Mucho, and how the estate might affect their relationship. There is an interesting contrast brought up between Pierce and Mucho in relation to their social status. While Pierce had a good deal of money, he died early and he lost Oedipa. Mucho, on the other hand, does not have a great job but he is still alive and is married (although his wife does seem to have connections with other men). In addition, there is a large focus on altered mental states, through references to drugs and alcohol which I am interested to see if it will continue throughout the rest of the plot.