"Boule de Suif" or (as translated) "The Dumpling" is a short story that leaves an extremely long-lasting impression. An ironic and witty style of writing of Guy de Maupassant is definitely a key-factor that makes this story memorable. The conflict he uses has been existing in literature from the very beginning, but it doesn’t loses its relevance, for – let’s admit it – the society changes too slowly, we still prefer stereotype thinking to open-mindedness. Guy de Maupassant gives us a good lesson that – hopefully – will teach us not to judge a book by its cover.
It is not entirely necessary to discuss the reasons why people become sex workers, for this an endless topic that can go on forever. Guy de Maupassant portrays the Dumpling as a “loose woman” just to show hypocrisy of that time society. What else do we known about the Dumpling? First of all, she is a passionate person! She supports Bonaparte and his ideas with such ferocity that she dares to accuse people – who belong to the highest social class and could ruin her life easily – of betraying him. This woman doesn’t think twice before doing or saying something. Even her appearance – stoutness and beauty – says a lot about her. The Dumpling is an embodiment of life and energy. Not to mention that she is kind-hearted and doesn’t hold grudges too long. Would you offer your food to people who don’t even try to hide a fact that they dislike and despise you? The Dumpling does it, not because she feels obliged, but out of her free will. Her naivety tricks her into believing that it once they share food with her they will be able to overlook her profession.
To their credit, they start talking to her in a more friendly manner, but that is all they can do for her. We know it because when she needs protection and support they could provide they don’t hesitate to refuse. People ask her what it matters to her, as if a “loose” woman like her doesn’t have either dignity or pride. Of course, one can justify the Dumpling’s fellow travelers, for the soldiers could easily kill them and get away with it, but there is nothing in the world that can redeem their behavior afterwards. The most horrible fact that nuns – the ones who are supposed be merciful –, the representative of the nobility – the ones who are supposed to be wise –, a manufacturer – the one who is not supposed to have stereotypes –, and a democrat turn out to be equally shallow, ungrateful and cruel.
The lesson reader can learn is that a kind and understanding heart is worth more than high social status and money. Another idea is that people’s memory is rather short lasting, so it is better to think twice before agreeing to sacrifice oneself for others’ benefit. The Dumpling’s story just proves it. However, there is a pointed message here: skepticism that the majority of humankind is better than the people Dumpling meets in the coach.
