In Harold Pinter's play "Old Times," a conversation unfolds that highlights the complexity of relationships, particularly regarding friendship. When one character is asked if they considered another as their best friend, they reveal that this person was their only friend. This exchange delves into the nuances of companionship and implies that having just one friend raises questions about the nature of that bond.
Furthermore, the dialogue points to the contradiction in labeling someone as the "best" when they are the only friend. The character acknowledges this with the statement "my one and only," suggesting a deep yet singular connection that lacks comparison. This reflection reveals how exclusivity in relationships can complicate the way we define intimacy and connection in our lives.