The Garden Party
Can Beryl Fairfield's and Mrs. Kemper's relationship be viewed as romantic?
In At the Bay, chapter 5, Beryl opts to undress with Mrs. Kemper rather than with her family, even though she is aware of her mother's disapproval. When she does meet Mrs. Kemper, she is reluctant to undress in front of her, but finding a surge of boldness she steps out of her clothes. There are some moments when Mrs. Kemper touches Beryl and also offers up some playful/ flirtasious comments, such as "Really, it's a sin for you to wear clothes, my dear. Somebody's got to tell you some day." Though other critics and reviews view Mrs. Kemper's advice to be directed to men, could she also be refering to her own relationship with Beryl Fairfield, when she says "I believe in pretty girls having a good time," said Mrs. Harry Kember. "Why not? Don't you make a mistake, my dear. Enjoy yourself."