Mary Jane

Mary Jane’s meatloaf dinner is a big success. She is surprised by the animated conversation during the meal compared to her silent dinners at home. During dessert, Sheba broaches the topic of some additional therapy for Jimmy: “‘Richard,’ Sheba said, ‘I just think if he’s going to eat so much sugar, which can’t be good for him, he should be allowed a little Mary Jane as well’” (82). Misunderstanding, Mary Jane thinks Sheba is suggesting a sexual encounter for her and Jimmy. She is surprised and relieved to learn that Mary Jane is a slang term for marijuana. Richard hedges and says they might try a controlled marijuana experiment at a later date.

Mary Jane takes Izzy upstairs for a bath before bed. Sheba comes along to help. She confides that if Jimmy can stay away from drugs for five years, she would like to have a baby. The two sing as they get Izzy ready for bed. The entire experience makes Mary Jane feel happy and secure. Since it’s now after dark, someone needs to drive her home. Sheba immediately volunteers, and Jimmy agrees to go along. They park a block away from Mary Jane’s house, where Jimmy produces a joint and begins to smoke.