Image And Reality

I think Something Split adds to this discussion in two ways: 1. In addressing the image that comes with the label of "lawyer" and "Yale grad" (p. 35), it provides an example of the largely unavoidable stereotypes and images riding alongside the labels one has subjected himself to. An individual could be the most ethical lawyer in history of time, but that, in itself, will not change the view of the common man that the title means arrogance, corruption and pretentiouness. Secondly (2), It confirms that point that image can become more important than reality. Though Wylie's partner is in psychoanalysis, it seems important (for more than reasons of mere confidentiality) that his name is not revealed. It also is important that his psychoanalyst is "different." As if attempting to dispel the immediate images that might develop in the mind when hearing the phrase, Wylie points out that Jack was dealing w/ a specialized M.D. Why? Perhaps it was too much to imagine a dignified attorney having real issues requiring treatment from the same person who would treat a layman with more common mental issues.

I think the examples here are illuminating. They suggest that the profession is one where where “keeping up with Joneses” is just the first step. Not only is the attorney expected to send the kids to the school costing three-quarters of a million dollars a year, but in a midst of a pressure-filled profession, she is additionally expected to actually have it all together: taking the right job, having the “right issues” (ie – alcoholism as opposed to more traditional psychological problems), and then handling them in ways that are unique to lawyers. I think Eben’s comment suggests that our profession, unlike others, is one where being a good lawyer is traditionally defined as maintaining this image. To fight against what is viewed as normal, an individual must ground herself in her own reality, stick to it and even then be willing to encounter resistance.

-- UchechiAmadi - 31 Mar 2009