Devil in a Blue Dress: Analysis of Major Characters
"Devil in a Blue Dress" is a novel that centers around the experiences of Ezekial "Easy" Rawlins, a factory worker turned detective in post-World War II Los Angeles. The story explores themes of race, identity, and the quest for the American Dream through Rawlins' journey as he navigates a world filled with crime and moral ambiguity. Following his dismissal from an aircraft factory due to a racially charged incident, Easy finds himself entangled in a moneymaking scheme that leads him into detective work, ultimately providing him with a sense of independence and self-confidence.
Key characters include Daphne Monet, a mysterious woman who embodies the titular "devil in a blue dress." With a complex background, she passes as white while grappling with her African American heritage and a traumatic past. Another significant figure is Raymond "Mouse" Alexander, a volatile friend of Easy's who brings a sense of danger and loyalty to the narrative. Lastly, Dewitt Albright, a morally ambiguous lawyer with a penchant for violence, further complicates Easy's journey as he seeks to find Daphne. Together, these characters illustrate the intricate dynamics of race, identity, and survival in America during this turbulent era.
Devil in a Blue Dress: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Walter Mosley
First published: 1990
Genre: Novel
Locale: Los Angeles, California
Plot: Detective and mystery
Time: The late 1940's
Ezekial “Easy” Rawlins (ee-ZEE-kee-uhl), a factory worker turned detective. He is originally from Houston, Texas, but moved to California in search of a wartime factory job and to escape the influence of his friend Raymond Alexander. He has no family connections and is largely self-educated. Fired from his job in an aircraft factory after an incident with his foreman involving race, Easy is drawn into a moneymaking scheme by a friend. He is attempting to live the American Dream; he has managed to buy a home and now must take on unfamiliar work in order to pay his mortgage. He is haunted by his combat experiences in Europe and is increasingly uncomfortable with the violent situation into which he is drawn. Eventually, Rawlins discovers that detective work provides him with an independence and self-confidence that he had not experienced previously.
Daphne Monet (moh-NAY), a companion to rich businessmen and crime figures; she is the devil in a blue dress of the title. Her real name is Ruby Hanks, and her mother is African American. As Daphne Monet, she passes as white. She leaves Lake Charles, Louisiana, and the identity of Ruby Hanks to escape the memory of an incestuous relationship with her father. She has so perfected her escape from the past that she is described as a chameleon. She is able to assume different racial identities and even radically different personalities.
Raymond “Mouse” Alexander, Rawlins' friend and partner from Houston. He appears in Los Angeles, having been notified that Rawlins needs his help. Little is known about Mouse's past, other than that he killed his stepfather to acquire inheritance money that he had been denied. Mouse is violent and unpredictable but values loyalty and friendship.
Dewitt Albright, a lawyer turned “criminal handyman.” Like Mouse, he is violent and unpredictable. He seems to have no morals or scruples. He hires Rawlins to help him find Daphne Monet.