Last hurrah-Character :: essays research papers

Edwin OConnors novel The Last Hurrah presents a view of the serious and hard life of the Irish-American community in Boston of the 1950s. The author uses a number of characterizations to produce themes that relate to the political and social considerations of this era. With a tarradiddle style that holds the readers interest, OConnor leads you through the streets and alleys of the old city, giving you a brief restrain a bun in the oven at old-time city politics. He does this through Frank Skeffington who is the master(prenominal) character. One of the characters OConnor used to make his point is washbowl Gorman.John Gorman is quiet and somber. Gormans dedication to social structures and concern for religion and the family differ from the ideas correspond by the candidate and the corrupt political leader. When talking with Gorman at a party, Molly Riordan presents her view of Frank Skeffington, and is met with Gormans skeptical response. Molly says, Hes the best of them all, J ohn, matinee idol love him. Theres not a night goes by I dont say a little prayer for him.(OConnor 85). Gormans response is a simple non-committal mention about the party and skeptically attempts to avoid demonstrating any commitment to Mollys remarks.Although Gorman and Skeffington have a close association, there is no determination of any homage that exists from Gormans view. He is not dedicated to the cause of Skeffingtons election, although that is a primary saying of many of his interactions. Gormans odd sense of humor also adds to his presentation of scepticism in regards to Skeffington. When discussing the topic of campaign issues that came up between Skeffington and his nephew, the nephew acknowledges that the topic did eff up whenever they were together. Gorhams response, intended to bring up religious symbolism as well as humor, which was, Ah well, thats natural enough, If you met the Pope, youd talk about religion. (O Connor 192). OConnors book is regnant because of its complexity of levels. There is a defined consideration for the plot and characterizations, provided OConnor does not stop at this.