A Parallel of Inferiority

An inflated sense of self-importance, a desperately skewed perception of reality, an intrinsic lack of the capacity to truly love another: though perhaps different in some aspects, the fundamental reason behind Mother and Jason’s intimacy lies not within what is independent of each, but rather, that which is held in common. Upon close evaluation of her character through both Quentin’s and especially Jason’s chapter, it is evident that Mother (along with all her selfishness and distorted opinions) is a woman within whose very core lays the fear of inferiority. This fear is interlaced within each of her “relationships” with both children and husband: Benji is her “punishment” from God, thus representing retribution for her “sins”, Quentin an undervalued stranger in her eyes, the embodiment of a true “Compson”, Caddy her catalyst to happiness and familial pride, and Jason, her husband, a man she feels is unrightfully superior to herself. However, Mother is not the only character whose primary concern seems to be combating (and often denying) this overwhelming sense of inferiority. As evidenced through his desperate need for public acceptance, unwavering desire for monetary accumulation, and twisted craving for every facet of control he could possibly obtain, Jason Compson serves as a mirror in which his mother’s potent reflection is exposed. The two share several negative attributes and it is this that ultimately binds them together tighter than they perhaps realize: their individual lack of inner competence is thus translated into a mutual bond that strengthens with every passing flicker of inferiority. What are Mother and Jason’s differences? Is there another explanation for their relationship?