The main character in the short story "On the Rainy River" is Tim O'Brien.
Understanding Tim O'Brien: The Protagonist
"On the Rainy River" is a pivotal chapter found within Tim O'Brien's acclaimed book, The Things They Carried. In this autobiographical narrative, Tim O'Brien not only serves as the protagonist but also as the first-person narrator, offering a deeply personal and introspective account of his pre-war experiences.
The Central Conflict and Moral Quandary
The story intricately details Tim O'Brien's profound inner turmoil as he faces a life-altering decision: whether to comply with his draft notice for the Vietnam War or to flee to Canada. This dilemma places him in a significant moral quandary, leading him to a remote fishing lodge near the Rainy River, a natural boundary separating Minnesota from Canada. His time there, particularly his interactions with the lodge owner, Elroy Berdahl, becomes a crucible for his conscience, forcing him to confront his fears, principles, and the societal pressures that weigh heavily upon him.
Significance of the Character
Tim O'Brien's character in "On the Rainy River" embodies several key themes:
- Autobiographical Resonance: The story is widely understood as a semi-fictionalized account of the author's own struggle with conscription.
- The Weight of Choice: His journey highlights the immense burden of deciding between perceived duty and personal conviction.
- Symbolism of the Rainy River: The river itself becomes a potent symbol of a critical juncture, representing the dividing line between two vastly different futures and the ultimate decision he must make.
- Exploration of Courage and Cowardice: O'Brien wrestles with the societal definitions of bravery and cowardice, questioning what it truly means to be a "man" in the face of war.
| Aspect of Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Tim O'Brien |
| Role | Protagonist, Narrator |
| Core Conflict | Response to Vietnam War draft notice; moral dilemma of evasion vs. participation. |
| Key Location | Rainy River, near the Canadian border. |
Through Tim O'Brien's deeply personal narrative, readers gain insight into the complex psychological landscape of individuals grappling with the realities of war and the difficult choices it imposes.
