| I used to wonder that too, but this time (I saw it last Saturday night and thought it was n excellent production of a play more important for its content than for any advance on dramatic form--which it never claimed to be) I had read some interviews with Crowley (and had seen the documentary) and recalled that he identifies with Michael and had himself been to Hollywood before writing the play, and I listened for Michael's lines about writing the screenplay for the film that wasn't produced. So, I assume Michael is living on the last remnants of the screenplay money (which could have been substantial, even if the film wasn't made), had acquired habits of living and shopping that were supportable if he had remained an employed screenwriter, but which were not--and they fed his neuroses. I don't think the character is alone among gay men (or anyone, for that matter) in using compulsive spending as a narcotic or self-medication for unhappiness. Like most addictions, it only provides a temporary balm, as Michael himself knew, but couldn't break out of. |
