Reading 13: "The Contest"

I'm not quite sure what to think of "The Contest" by Grace Paley. From what I understood, the title is referring to Dotty's attempt at getting Freddy to marry her; she is unsuccessful. I think the story was written well, the character and type of persona Freddy embodies is evident within the tone used, as well as the description created. I also appreciate the contrast created within the character's emotions. Though he seems determined not to get married and enjoy the company of other females, Freddy finds himself missing Dotty. The irony of the story is laced in the words. Along with that, I expected him to come to his senses at the end and ask Dotty to marry him. Instead Paley stayed very true to the character she wrote and did not alter the situation or the character's resolve despite him missing Dotty. I appreciated that she did this because the lack of character development speaks for itself, as well as adds to the narrative.