Like a Shakespearean comedy that moves from the confines of the court to the freedom of
nature, the plot deepens as the setting reflects a letting-go of the artificial social order that
confines individuals. The song “California Dreamin’” is playing in the car. Musical lyrics
also play a role in social conditioning. The lyrics to this song coincide with the ideas of
fantasizing of a better life and longing for a place of happiness and fulfillment. As Connor
drives the car, this song is playing, which represents the notion of his role of the male hero
who will rescue the family from the imprisonment of socioeconomic oppression. Mia’s
reflection is seen in the car window as she gazes out. This symbolizes the two identities that
she now carries: that of a girl who takes on the male dominance due to her absentee father
and a girl that longs for a man to fulfill the role of a father/hero figure who will lead the
family to a better life.
Listening to this song is not the first time Mia feels a connection to Connor. When
Connor is first introduced on the screen he startles Mia when she realizes he has been
admiringly watching her dance in the kitchen. She greets him with hostility and coldness as
she feels intruded upon and has a lack of respect, not only for adults, but men in particular.
Connor pours three cups of tea, takes two back upstairs, and casually leaves one for Mia.
This is the first instance of Connor reaching out to Mia and attempting to gain her
acceptance and trust. It is a subtle gesture, but profound in her awareness that he may be a
caring, nurturing male figure worthy of her trust.
It is no coincidence that Mia goes directly to his wallet. Not only is she able to
understand the identity of this mystery man, who has invaded her home by spending the
night with her mother, she associates this male figure with money. As she goes through his
wallet she is summing up his worthiness by how much money he has in it. Her little sister,
Tyler, also equates the worthiness of this man with money. She does not allow him to finish
the descent of the staircase until he pays a toll. Tyler puts her arms up like a gate and does
not allow him to cross until he has paid her the proper amount of money. Tyler’s
connection with men and financial security is also a product of the social conditioning that
assumes a man’s worthiness is dependent upon his ability to provide financial support and
security.