Summary

Part 5, “Choose,” is told from the perspective of Aviva at 20. The section employs a unique technique in which multiple options are given, and one is “chosen.” The options not taken are crossed out, and the option chosen carries the story forward: “If you choose the black dress [crossed out]. If you choose the blue dress [crossed out]. If you choose the white blouse and kilt [not crossed out]. You choose the white blouse because you think it’s the most professional, but then, when you put it on, the buttons strain across your breasts, creating eye-shaped gaps” (162-163). Aviva goes to work for the congressman in the tight-fitting outfit and meets a nice boy named Charlie Green. They go out to lunch together. At the end of the day, Aviva’s boss calls her into the office and tells her that her outfit is...