Were Perry Mason and Della Street an Item: A Romantic Analysis

The relationship between Perry Mason and Della Street, his legal secretary, has long been a topic of fascination for fans of the Perry Mason series, whether in novel form or on the television. Is their relationship truly romantic, or more of an employer-employee bond?

On the Page and on the Screen

In the books, the relationship between Perry Mason and Della Street is far from a typical employer-employee dynamic. Perry Mason's proposition to Della is a recurring theme, often met with her refusal to tie the knot, as she values her role as his secretary more than anything else. For Perry, these proposals are a testament to the deep affection he has for Della. In the television series, this romance takes a more explicit form, with underlying romantic tension evident throughout the cases.

Chemistry on Screen

The acting prowess of Barbara Hale, who played Della Street, plays a crucial role in depicting the romance between the two characters. Their on-screen chemistry adds a layer of depth to the story, making the relationship between Perry and Della an integral part of the narrative. Despite the consistent rejections, there is a palpable affection and respect between them that continues to captivate fans.

Subtleties in the Novels

Delving deeper into the Perry Mason novels reveals a wealth of romantic subtext. For instance, in The Case of the Grinning Gorilla, Perry Mason demonstrates his affection for Della through physical gestures and heartfelt words. In one scene, he expresses his deep feelings by saying, 'Baby, we’ve struck pay dirt.' This not only conveys his professional success but also his personal happiness, firmly establishing a romantic connection.

Further Affectionate Indications

Throughout the series, there are multiple instances where Perry refers to Della as 'Darling.' In Half-Wakened Wife, he even fantasizes about a future with Della, buying a piece of property in her name. Moreover, during their separation in The Case of the Substitute Face, Della's actions during the trial reveal a shared emotional bond. Della’s disappearance and subsequent meetup with Perry, described in detail, strongly suggest a romantic relationship.

Shared Social Lives

Their shared social life is another indicator of the bond between Perry and Della. They make time for vacations together, for instance, on a cruise and a desert retreat. These outings, where they optionally separate for propriety, further emphasize their close relationship. In The Case of the Phantom Fortune, Perry admits to Mason that he keeps his social life 'sharply limited' for privacy, but Della’s enjoyment of case-related social gatherings suggests otherwise. Their relationship is not just professional; it is deeply personal and romantic.

The First Bold Step

The tides turn in The Case of the Blonde Bonanza, as Della and Perry embark on a vacation. Amidst the backdrop of a cozy dinner, the subtext becomes even more palpable. In the clarity of old-fashioned terms, Mae, Della’s aunt, emphasizes their affection using the term 'making love,' indicating a relationship that transcends the boundaries of professional friendship.

Conclusion

From the novels to the screen, the relationship between Perry Mason and Della Street is more than just a transactional bond. It is a story of love, respect, and deep affection. While their romance is not overtly explicit in all of E.S.G.'s novels, the hints and subtext provide a satisfying exploration of a complex, evolving relationship. Fans of the Perry Mason series may find these insights as enlightening as they are fascinating.