People As Entertainment

The author uses the group of "dear friends" to demonstrate - or warn - readers how some people seek out friends for their entertainment qualities instead of their companionship - and these people most certainly are not real friends. The dear friends are not true friends to one another, in terms of support and affection. Instead, they have grouped together because of their wealth and ability to throw parties. Instead of finding companionship, the "dear friends" seek out others, like Etienne, who give them opportunity to see and be seen.

The dear friends also seek out young, interesting "entertainment" to bring into their group. These young people -- often women -- are chosen for their ability to temporarily enchant and entice them. However, this friendship is not only non-reciprocal, but it is also dangerous. The young women who climb onto the barge often die...