The Ballad of the Sad Cafe

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of addiction.

As characters navigate the conflicts that shape the romantic relationships they participate in, they struggle to grasp what ties them to others: “The beloved may be treacherous, greasy-headed, and given to evil habits. Yes, and the lover may see this as clearly as anyone else—but that does not affect the evolution of his love one whit. A most mediocre person can be the object of a love which is wild” (26). Love is unpredictable and is not based on merit. Flaws are recognized yet ignored, and the power differential in the relationship may spur a deeper affection. For instance, in “The Ballad of the Sad Café,” Miss Amelia’s affection for Cousin Lymon, much like Marvin Macy’s former affections for Miss Amelia, defies logic. Her love persists despite being seemingly despised; although Cousin Lymon abuses Miss Amelia’s partiality to him, she treats him with a generosity, kindness, and protective feeling she displays for no one else. 

In “A Domestic Dilemma,” Martin Meadows faces the challenge of his wife’s substance use disorder after their move from Alabama to New York.