Subtext in stories, when masterfully crafted, can create humour, levity, and a sense of play for readers and audiences, but it can also generate discomfort and raise story questions.

Subtext arises when readers and audiences are made aware of the true meaning of words and actions in a scene, but some, or even all of the characters in the scene remain oblivious to it.

Let’s see how it works!

In the iconic scene from the film Dangerous Liaisons, the Vicomte De Valmont, portrayed by John Malkovich, generates powerful emotions as he delivers a crushing blow to Madame De Tourvel, played by Michelle Pfeiffer. It’s a scene charged with pain, tension and emotional complexity, revealing the power of subtext and its profound impact on the audience. Here, the subtext—the connotative meaning of the words is that De Valmonte loves Madame De Touvel deeply, but his pride and personality will not let him admit it, lest it enslave him, so he denies his love, and goes out of his way to hurt her. The dramatic irony here is that he knows his love for her is so deep that it would control him—something he cannot abide.

1. The Illusion of Control

De Valmont’s words, “It’s beyond my control,” is a phrase repeated many times in the scene, drawing our attention to its deeper significance. For one, it points to the illusion of control that people cling to. For another, despite his apparent freedom of choice in the situation, De Valmont absolves himself of responsibility by suggesting that external forces are dictating his actions. This mirrors a common psychological phenomenon where individuals rationalize their behavior by attributing it to circumstances beyond their control. It’s a coping mechanism, an attempt to reconcile their actions with their self-image.

This reminds us of the fable of the scorpion and the frog where the scorpion’s destructive nature leads to the drowning of the both of them, and is excused with the phrase, “It’s in my nature.”

De Valmont’s assertion that leaving Madame De Tourvel is “The way of the world,” echoes this sentiment. The audience is confronted with the disconcerting truth that people may choose to relinquish accountability rather than to confront the consequences of their actions.

”Subtext arises as a result of readers and audiences becoming aware of a deeper meaning in the scene, while characters in the scene remain oblivious to it.”

2. Manipulation and Deception

Throughout Dangerous Liaisons, manipulation and deception are recurrent motifs, and the subtext of this scene is no exception. De Valmont’s words are carefully chosen to manipulate Madame De Tourvel into accepting his decision, despite her heartfelt pleas. By framing his actions as inevitable and beyond his control, he effectively shifts the blame away from himself and onto external factors. This manipulation adds complexity to the scene, drawing the audience into the intricate web of deceit.

Again, De Valmont’s behavior reflects a broader societal tendency to evade accountability through a linguistic sleight of hand. Phrases like “It’s not my fault” or “I can’t help it” are often used to justify morally dubious actions, shielding individuals from the consequences of their behavior and their conscience. In this way, the scene serves as a poignant commentary of the ability of language to shape perception and manipulate reality.

3. The Tragic Cost of Pride

At the heart of De Valmont’s decision to leave Madame De Tourvel is his pride, which refuses to allow him to give his love to a single woman. Despite his deep feelings for her, he chooses to prioritise his own ego over their relationship, ultimately leading to tragic consequences for both of them, which ironically is the ultimate proof of the love they shared. The theme of pride as a destructive force is a recurring motif in literature and film and lends this scene a poignant sense of enduring tragedy.

De Valmont’s reluctance to admit vulnerability or emotional dependency reflects his aversion to perceived weakness. By framing his decision as a matter of pride rather than love, he tries to shield himself from the pain of emotional intimacy, but ends up perpetuating a cycle of suffering for both himself and Madame De Tourvel. It’s a powerful reminder of the destructive power of unchecked pride and ego.

4. The Echoes of Reality

As De Valmont bludgeons his lover with his fateful words, over and over again, echoing sentiments of inevitability and resignation, we are confronted with the uncomfortable truth that his behavior mirrors real-world attitudes towards accountability and responsibility. The scene is a microcosm of broader societal dynamics, where individuals often prioritise self-interest over empathy and integrity.

This reflection of reality in the subtext underscores the film’s enduring relevance and resonates with audiences on a deeper level. In a world where accountability is often avoided and responsibility shifted onto external forces, the scene serves as a reminder of the importance of confronting the consequences of our actions.

Summary

Subtext occurs when readers and the audiences are made aware of the true meaning of words and actions in a scene, but some, or even all of the characters in the scene remain oblivious to it.

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