Chimp and the Organ Grinder

One night, Joe dreams about a chimp who is owned by an organ grinder. The chimp does everything the organ grinder wants so that he can make some money and have some food.

Joe's dream is symbolic of his relationship with Norma. She offers him food and lodging; in return, he does whatever she asks. Before becoming Norma's kept man, Joe entertained big dreams of becoming a brilliant writer. Although times were tough and he was being chased by creditors, at least his independence and idealism remained intact. After Joe comes to live with Norma, he essentially becomes her chimp. He forsakes all his friends when she asks him to stay with her and he assists Max in lying to her about her real situation.

Joe's dream about the chimp and the organ grinder helps him realize that he has gotten himself into a...