"She Wasn't Soft"--Analytical Response C

“She Wasn’t Soft” is a story of a strong-willed woman, Paula, and her boyfriend, Jason, who together do not complement each other well. Paula is a world-class athlete who is gearing up for a triathlon (which itself is a satellite event for the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon), and Jason is a beach bum who spends his time drinking and smoking. In the case of this story, the old saying “opposites attract” does not apply well. Although they are dating, they relationship is severely flawed. Paula feels she has to beat her rival, Zinny Bauer, so she tries to be extremely prepared for the race by secluding herself with her proper food and fuel for the race; however, Jason just wants her to sleep with him that night. The next morning (after the date rape), Jason wants her to win the race so she will forgive him and sleep with him again that night. Therefore, in the process of trying to spoil Zinny’s chances of winning, he spoils an eventual upset by Paula. The abrupt ending raises many questions. Such questions could be what are the motivations of the main characters and if their polar personalities create a relationship conducive to love and happiness. By trying to lead different lives than their parents, Boyle remarks on the influence of one’s upbringing. It seems as if by trying to live unique and distinct lives, they are not honest with themselves and distort their true personalities. Paula can find great joy in her accomplishments, but later in life will she regret all of the sacrifices she made? On the other hand, Jason’s actions are fueled by three things: smoking, alcohol, and sex. Will he look back and realize how meaningless and empty a life he has led? “She Wasn’t Soft” highlights culture’s obsession with high achievement and selfish motives of each individual.