Four shrinks on the season finale of The Sopranos.

Dear Glen, Phil, and Peggy,

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Glen introduced the idea of a "vertical split," which is very useful in trying to understand Tony. And I think we all find it relatively easy to understand one side of the split--that is, the part of him that seeks out women like Gloria because of his need to repeat his situation with Livia. But it is more difficult to understand the other side, which chooses and stays with Carmela. It is clear that while he has no compunctions about abusing his marriage in the extreme, ultimately he will protect its existence. You could argue, of course, that this is just the old patriarchal system that institutionalizes the wife and the mistress. But there is something more to it than that. There is something in Tony that recognizes Carmela's goodness and her capacity to love, which he knows is precious and essential for him. (This part also came out in his protective attitude toward Tracee.) But we don't have much to go on in terms of his biography to understand this side of the split. Any ideas?

Joel

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