"Go" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In John Clellon Holmes' novel "Go," the characters play various roles that contribute to the exploration of the Beat Generation and their search for meaning and identity in post-World War II America. The protagonist, Paul Hobbes, serves as the novel's lens through which readers experience the world of the Beatniks. His friends, including Gene Pasternak, Ross Sanders, and David Stofsky, provide different perspectives on the Beat lifestyle. Kathryn, Paul's love interest, represents his desire for stability and connection amidst the chaotic Beat scene. Agatson acts as a mentor figure, guiding Paul on his journey of self-discovery. Wesley, Laura, and Marie, as Paul's roommates and ex-girlfriends, offer insights into his past and relationships.

Character Descriptions

1. Paul Hobbes: The central character of the novel, Paul is a young writer who is drawn to the bohemian lifestyle of the Beat Generation. He is introspective and seeks meaning in his life, often grappling with existential questions.
2. Gene Pasternak: Paul's close friend, Gene is an aspiring poet who shares Paul's passion for literature and the Beat movement. He is more carefree and impulsive than Paul, often indulging in spontaneous adventures.
3. Ross Sanders: Another member of Paul's circle, Ross is a jazz musician who embodies the Beat ethos of spontaneity and rebellion. He is passionate about his music and often serves as a catalyst for Paul's self-reflection.
4. David Stofsky: A troubled and complex character, David is an aspiring writer grappling with personal demons. He struggles with addiction and serves as a cautionary tale within the Beat scene.
5. Kathryn: Paul's love interest, Kathryn represents stability and normalcy in contrast to the chaotic Beat lifestyle. She is a grounding force for Paul, providing him with a sense of purpose and a desire for a more conventional life.
6. Agatson: A mentor figure to Paul, Agatson is an older writer who has experienced the highs and lows of the Beat scene. He offers guidance and wisdom to Paul, helping him navigate the complexities of the Beat lifestyle.
7. Wesley: Paul's roommate, Wesley provides a contrasting perspective to the Beat lifestyle. He is more pragmatic and skeptical, offering a critical lens through which Paul examines his choices.
8. Laura: Paul's ex-girlfriend, Laura represents a failed relationship in Paul's past. Her presence serves as a reminder of the consequences of his choices and the potential for heartbreak within the Beat scene.
9. Marie: Another ex-girlfriend of Paul, Marie highlights his pattern of intense but short-lived relationships. Her inclusion in the narrative adds depth to Paul's character and explores the transient nature of his connections.

Character Traits

1. Paul Hobbes: Reflective, idealistic, introspective, adventurous, searching for meaning.
2. Gene Pasternak: Carefree, impulsive, passionate about poetry, indulgent in the Beat lifestyle.
3. Ross Sanders: Spontaneous, rebellious, passionate about jazz music, adventurous.
4. David Stofsky: Troubled, complex, struggling with addiction, talented writer.
5. Kathryn: Stable, grounded, longing for a conventional life, provides stability for Paul.
6. Agatson: Wise, experienced, mentor figure, offers guidance and perspective.
7. Wesley: Pragmatic, skeptical, critical of the Beat lifestyle, provides a contrasting viewpoint.
8. Laura: Represents failed relationships, serves as a reminder of the consequences of choices.
9. Marie: Reflects Paul's pattern of intense but short-lived relationships, explores the transient nature of connections.

Character Background

Paul Hobbes comes from a middle-class background and is drawn to the bohemian lifestyle of the Beat Generation as a means to escape societal norms and find a deeper meaning in life. His friends, Gene, Ross, and David, share his passion for literature, poetry, and music, and together they form a close-knit circle within the Beat scene. Kathryn, a more stable and conventional presence, represents the desire for connection and stability that Paul longs for amidst the chaos of the Beat lifestyle. Agatson, an older writer, serves as a mentor figure to Paul, sharing his experiences and offering guidance. Wesley, Laura, and Marie provide glimpses into Paul's past relationships and the challenges faced within the Beat scene.

Character Arcs

Throughout the novel "Go," Paul Hobbes undergoes a significant character arc as he navigates the Beat lifestyle. Initially, he is idealistic and enamored with the freedom and rebellion associated with the Beats. However, as the story progresses, he begins to question the consequences of his choices and the transient nature of his relationships. Paul's encounters with addiction, failed relationships, and personal struggles force him to confront his own desires and search for a deeper meaning beyond the surface-level rebellion of the Beat scene. Ultimately, Paul's character arc revolves around his search for authenticity and a balance between self-expression and personal responsibility.

Relationships

Paul Hobbes' relationships with the other characters in "Go" play a crucial role in shaping his experiences and character development. His friendship with Gene, Ross, and David represents the camaraderie and shared passion for literature and music within the Beat scene. Kathryn's role as Paul's love interest provides him with stability and a longing for a conventional life. Agatson's mentorship guides Paul on his journey of self-discovery, offering wisdom and perspective. Wesley, Laura, and Marie serve as reminders of Paul's past relationships and the lessons learned from those experiences. Overall, the relationships in "Go" highlight the complex dynamics and challenges faced by individuals within the Beat Generation.

In conclusion, "Go" by John Clellon Holmes presents a diverse cast of characters who contribute to the exploration of the Beat Generation and the search for meaning and identity in post-World War II America. Through the protagonist, Paul Hobbes, and his relationships with Gene, Ross, David, Kathryn, Agatson, Wesley, Laura, and Marie, the novel delves into themes of rebellion, self-discovery, and the consequences of personal choices. Holmes skillfully crafts a character-driven narrative that captures the essence of the Beat lifestyle and the complexities of human relationships.