# What Identity and Pretense means in The Adventures of Sally

> Characters hide engagements, adopt false personas, or struggle with who they are—Sally's secret engagement, Ginger's awkwardness, and Fillmore's inflated self-image all highlight this theme.

## Explanation

Characters hide engagements, adopt false personas, or struggle with who they are—Sally's secret engagement, Ginger's awkwardness, and Fillmore's inflated self-image all highlight this theme.

The secret engagement and Gerald's furtive behavior underscore the theme of hidden identities and the pretense required to navigate social and professional pressures.

Sally tries to guess the identities and occupations of strangers on the beach, a pastime that highlights the theme of judging by appearances. Ginger's own identity as a 'hasher' is a key part of his character.

The conversation reveals hidden circumstances and social posturing, as Ginger conceals his firing from Bruce and Sally listens anonymously.

Sally and the red-haired young man are in a situation where they must communicate despite language barriers, revealing their true characters through their reactions.

## Links

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- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_adventures_of_sally_se
- All concepts: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_adventures_of_sally_se/concepts