The Pecan Man

As a woman of wealth and privilege, Ora owns many valuable possessions, including the silverware she reserves for special occasions. Because sterling silver is expensive, Ora customarily uses it sparingly because everyday use would make the fine pieces seem ordinary. As they polish the silverware in preparation for Thanksgiving dinner, Ora explains to Blanche’s girls that having such fine things was essential for being a good hostess in the 1950s. She is describing the social expectations for women of a prominent class: fine things to impress others. As Ora explains, making a good impression was essential to reflect well on one’s husband (thus aiding in establishing his reputation as a success in his profession). Because Ora is white, she takes for granted that this custom is correct and normal. Blanche’s girls, however, point out the wastefulness of owning possessions that are seldom used and the futility of polishing them merely to impress others. Because they have been economically disadvantaged, the notion of using one’s possessions to climb a social ladder is foreign to them. Their curiosity about these social practices allows Ora to see the absurdity of her class’s social traditions. Further, Ora’s use of her fine silverware at a meal where her Black friends are present shows that she regards