Characters in Clarissa’s New York City can be open about their sexuality, contrasting sharply with other sections of this novel that depict less open earlier periods of history. Walter and Richard’s differing careers raise questions about the value of different types of literature. Walter seems to reach a wider audience, but Richard gets more critical acclaim and establishment support. Despite each of their success, the novel seems to suggest that they each of them fall short of the ideal of Virginia Woolf, whose work has brilliance and
also speaks to everyday people like Laura.