V.V. (12) "a tiny European Conclave or League of Nations"

[David Morris]

>From: "jbor" A curious crew were thus thrown together. Many, of course, 
>were German: rich neighbours, visitors from Windhoek or Swakopmund. But 
>there were also Dutch and English from the Union; Italians, Austrians, 
>Belgians from the diamond fields near the coast; French, Russian, Spanish 
>and one Pole from various corners of the earth; all creating the appearance 
>of a tiny European Conclave or League of Nations, assembled here while 
>political chaos howled outside.  (235.13)
>
>
>Q. What is the significance of the setting Pynchon has chosen

A.1:  The Siege Party bears strong resemblance to the Casino Party and to 
the Anubis Party.  They are all parties of the European "Haves."  All happen 
in priviledged enclaves.  I'd say the significant aspect of this party is 
its proximity to the action which here overtly ridicules the hopes of the 
indigenous rebels.  But all of these parties overtly ridicule the sufferings 
of those on the outside.

DM
_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com