On the surface, “Big Blonde” is the story of an aging buxom blond woman who lives a freewheeling lifestyle in New York City during the 1920s. Although in many ways the story parallels its author’s life, the protagonist (Hazel Morse) is a watered-down version of Parker. Hazel lacks the deep intellectual prowess, sharp wit, and intense self-awareness of her creator. However, the span of Hazel’s existence covered in “Big Blonde” astutely reflects life for a certain type of woman who struggled to survive during this period. It’s a sad, shallow existence marked by societal limitations, personal disappointments, sadness, and a slow, dark slide into alcohol addiction.

Societal limitations are the first barrier Hazel faces. As the story begins, she’s a 20-something dress model who lives a seemingly glamorous life in the city. She’s independent, attractive, and popular with the men in her circle. However, the physical attributes that served her well in her younger years—her buxom figure and blond hair—are fading fast, highlighting one of the story’s central themes: The Role of Beauty. In addition, the bubbly personality that made her popular with the boys is becoming increasingly harder to pull off. Although she isn’t given to self-reflection, Hazel is savvy regarding survival skills.