Tidy is portrayed as a character with a strong sense of self-importance and a smug demeanor, which can make her quite unlikable. The author, Laurie Notaro, describes her as lacking humility and often being abrasive, suggesting that she can alienate those around her with her arrogance and self-absorption.

This characterization invites readers to examine the antics and trials of Tidy as she navigates her life. Notaro's portrayal hints at a deeper exploration of how such attitudes affect personal relationships and societal interactions, setting the stage for both humorous and reflective moments in her narrative.