Yes, Larry and Alice did have sex.
Initially, Larry denied having a sexual encounter with Alice to Dan. This initial falsehood was driven by Alice's fear that if Dan discovered the truth about her and Larry, he would no longer want to be with her. Larry's lie was an attempt to protect Alice's relationship with Dan.
However, the truth eventually emerged. Larry later revealed to Dan that he and Alice had indeed had sex. This confession was a deliberate act by Larry, intended to cause distress to Dan.
The complex interplay of truth, deception, and betrayal among these characters is a core theme in Patrick Marber's acclaimed play, Closer. The narrative explores the turbulent dynamics of modern relationships and the profound consequences of infidelity.
Key Aspects of Their Interaction:
- Initial Deception: Larry's initial lie was to shield Alice from Dan's potential rejection, based on Alice's fear.
- Alice's Motivation: Her primary concern was to maintain her relationship with Dan, leading her to desire the secret be kept.
- Larry's Revelation: The eventual disclosure was a calculated move by Larry, aimed at inflicting emotional pain on Dan.
Summary of Actions and Motivations:
| Character | Action Regarding Larry & Alice's Sexual Encounter | Underlying Motivation |
|---|---|---|
| Larry | Initially denied the act to Dan. | To protect Alice (as requested). |
| Later confessed the truth to Dan. | To intentionally hurt Dan. | |
| Alice | Feared Dan's reaction to the truth. | To maintain her relationship with Dan. |
| Dan | Was deceived, then confronted with the truth. | Central figure in the emotional manipulation. |
This sequence highlights how secrets and their eventual revelations profoundly shape the volatile relationships within the play.
