The portion of the book we just read (257-262) sums up how defeated Swenson is and how defeated he feels. He’s been summoned to appear at Euston for a hearing, in which he knows will not support or defend his character. His wife left him, as his daughter did, so he’s avoiding everything besides books with tragic endings for main characters. He’s showing many emotions by remaining in this emotionless state. He’s showing his grief, hopelessness, depressiveness, and other negative feelings. He drinks and read to avoid the outside world, and he does not even try to fix things with either of his family members. In his mind, he feels as if his previous world of having a wife and a great job is all over and he’s just waiting for the day he dies, while ignoring his suicidal thoughts.
Hi Suresh:
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that Swenson feels that his life with having a wife and a daughter is over. But I don't think he's suicidal. He goes through a depressive state of drinking alcohol, reading books on adultery and watching The Blue Angel, a movie about a tragic hero. He compares himself to these characters trying to find closure in his situation. Furthermore, he comes to the realization that the situation he's in is a blessing. He can read more, write the memoir Len suggested for him to write, and do whatever pleases him. Not to mention, he gets to leave Euston, a place he describes as hell. Overall, Swenson isn't defeated because a new chapter to a bright future has opened for him.