The It Girl

Open and closed doors depict the theme of Elitism and Elitist Politics in The It Girl. Hannah sees that the old door to Pelham’s campus is open when she arrives, unlike when she interviewed with admissions. The campus door represents the exclusivity of being an Oxford student. Hannah and Ryan often resent the advantages that their wealthier and more privileged peers have—how much easier it was for the elite to walk through that same door. When Dr. Myers invites Hannah to an exclusive party for his more promising students, April flirts her way into the soiree while flaunting an expensive bottle of champagne, giving Hannah “a dazzling smile and stepped forward [...] and Hannah [sees] her give the smallest of winks over her bare shoulder. And then she disappear[s] and the door close[s] behind her” (92). April uses her wealth and privilege to bypass the hard work that Hannah needs to do to earn an invitation to the same party, which upsets Hannah. Elitism makes Hannah feel as though her efforts are minimized and insignificant.

Likewise, April’s closed bedroom door symbolizes the divide in her and Hannah’s friendship. April keeps secrets from Hannah, even though she’s her best friend.