This week, Joey, Colin, and Jennifer discuss: “The Semplica Girl Diaries,” by George Saunders, from The New Yorker, published in 2015. The story follows a working-class man who buys “Semplica Girls”—poor young women from developing countries who serve as human lawn ornaments—for his daughter’s birthday, hoping to boost her status among her wealthier peers. The family’s financial situation worsens after the protagonist’s younger daughter frees the girls, leading to severe consequences.

Our Thoughts

Colin emphasizes the unique narrative style of the story, highlighting George Saunders’ ability to balance humor with heavy themes. He points out how the protagonist’s diary is unpolished and disorganized, adding to the story’s relatable yet unsettling tone.

“What I loved most about this story is that it’s both funny and sad, and pointed at the same time. It deals with very serious themes like consumerism, class inequality, and globalization, but you find yourself laughing at the absurdities.”
— Colin

Jennifer focuses on Saunders’ masterful use of an unreliable narrator to explore societal issues. She is struck by how Saunders uses the protagonist’s young daughter, Eva, as the moral compass of the story, especially when she questions the ethics of the Semplica Girls’ treatment.

“Eva, the youngest daughter, is the moral voice. She’s asking, ‘Why don’t we just give them money instead of keeping them tied up?’ She exposes the absurdity and immorality of the whole system.”
— Jennifer

Joey brings attention to the broader critique of the American dream and class disparity. He connects the family’s desperation to “keep up with the Joneses” with a broader societal commentary on consumerism and exploitation.

“This story is brutally honest about how expensive it is to be poor, even if you’re not in abject poverty. The father is trying to do the best for his family, but the system is rigged, and his choices only lead to further ruin.”
— Joey

Key Themes

• Consumerism and Class Inequality: The protagonist’s purchase of Semplica Girls highlights the extremes people will go to in order to elevate their social standing, even if it means exploiting others.
• Moral Reckoning: Eva’s release of the Semplica Girls is a key moment of moral clarity, contrasting with the father’s justifications for their use as status symbols.
• Globalization and Exploitation: The Semplica Girls, who come from countries like Moldova and the Philippines, symbolize the dehumanizing effects of globalization and the commodification of human lives.
• Family and Responsibility: The father’s well-meaning but misguided actions reflect a deeper commentary on the pressures parents face to provide for their children, even at great personal cost.

Conclusion

The discussion wraps up with Colin, Jennifer, and Joey agreeing that “The Semplica Girl Diaries” masterfully intertwines dark humor with poignant social criticism. Saunders presents a world not far removed from our own, where the quest for status leads to moral compromise and financial ruin.