Spiritual Corruption

As previously discussed in terms of character, "The Last Good Kiss" has many characteristics in common with other narratives of the so-called "hard boiled" or "film noir" genre (novels, films, television, theater). In terms of theme, this commonality extends to a cynical emphasis on the way lives can be corrupted by power, sex, violence, love, and money, either on their own or in combination. Corruption on all five levels exists in this narrative, but by far the most corrupting is sex. Sughrue's professional and personal integrity is corrupted by his sexual desire for Catherine, a desire she carefully and deliberately manipulates. It could also be argued that he is also corrupted by his obsession, albeit more idealized, with Betty Sue. Meanwhile, Trahearne's creativity is corrupted by his sexual desire and obsession with Melinda, while his sexual integrity is corrupted by his youthful sexual fascination with his mother...