Katya laughed and shrugged. She was a hired girl; she said such things on order. Much of her life was this sort of semiskilled playing to other people, usually older people, with the hope of making them like her; making them feel that she was valuable to them; wresting some of their power from them, if but fleetingly. It was like provoking a boy or a man to want you. That could be risky, as Katya well knew.
by Joyce Carol Oates
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Katya's laughter and indifference highlight her role as a hired girl, someone who performs according to the expectations of others. Throughout her life, she engages in a careful dance of behavior aimed at pleasing older individuals, seeking their approval and validation. This social strategy allows her to momentarily gain a sense of power and worthiness in their eyes, reflecting her need for connection and acceptance.
This interaction resembles the nuances of romantic provocation, where she attempts to ignite desire from those around her, often at her own risk. Katya's awareness of the potential dangers involved reveals her understanding of the complexities of relationships and the vulnerabilities that accompany her tactics. She navigates a precarious path where her need for affection may lead to unforeseen consequences.
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