May the Best Man Win

Symbols

The story contains many references to Eddie’s blue eyes, such as “His eyes were bright, and the same blue as his coat. They lit up the room” (ll. 53-54). The constant references to the blue eyes symbolize Patti’s growing interest in Eddie. However, the references to eye colour also emphasize that Eddie is the first white person who has seemed attracted to Patti in a long time. His eye color is therefore also a symbol of the world that Patti left behind when she was kicked out of her family due to her relationship with Fitz, and which she might return to through Eddie if she chooses.

The televised boxing match is also a symbol of the various other conflicts that unfold in the pub, such as the indirect rivalry between Eddie and Fitz, or Patti’s inner conflict regarding which man deserves her attention. The symbolic connection between the boxing match and Patti’s situation is made especially clear in the final lines, when her response to Fitz’ question about the match is instead focused on her own situation: “Fitz,’ she said, once and then louder. The drunk stirred and opened an eye. ‘Who won?’ ‘I did,’ she said” (ll. 265-267).