"The Last Time They Met" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In Anita Shreve's novel "The Last Time They Met," the characters play crucial roles in shaping the story's narrative and themes. The protagonist, Linda Fallon, is the central character around whom the plot revolves. Other important characters include Thomas Janes, Linda's lover; Julian, Linda's husband; Adrian, Julian's friend; and Billy Fallon, Linda's brother.

Character Descriptions

Linda Fallon

Linda Fallon is a complex and intriguing character. She is a successful poet and writer who is haunted by her past. She is described as intelligent, introspective, and passionate. Linda possesses a captivating presence and an aura of mystery that draws people towards her. Her physical appearance is often portrayed as striking, with dark hair and expressive eyes.

Thomas Janes

Thomas Janes is Linda's former lover and a significant presence in her life. He is an esteemed poet and writer, much like Linda. Thomas is depicted as charismatic, charming, and enigmatic. His physical description emphasizes his rugged handsomeness and piercing gaze, which adds to his allure.

Julian

Julian is Linda's husband and a successful attorney. He is portrayed as intelligent, ambitious, and devoted to Linda. Julian's physical appearance is often described as polished and refined, reflecting his professional persona. He is a contrast to Linda's artistic and introspective nature.

Adrian

Adrian is Julian's close friend, and his role in the story is pivotal. He is an artist and a free spirit who offers Linda a different perspective on life. Adrian's character is portrayed as bohemian, with a carefree and adventurous demeanor. His physical appearance is often described as unconventional, with long hair and a disheveled appearance.

Billy Fallon

Billy Fallon, Linda's brother, has a minor role but provides insight into Linda's past and family dynamics. He is portrayed as caring and protective towards Linda. Billy's physical appearance is described as rugged, reflecting his blue-collar background.

Character Traits

Linda Fallon

Linda is intelligent, introspective, and passionate. She is also haunted by her past, which contributes to her complex and mysterious nature.

Thomas Janes

Thomas is charismatic, charming, and enigmatic. He possesses a magnetic presence that attracts others. He is also deeply passionate about his craft and has a brooding and introspective side.

Julian

Julian is intelligent, ambitious, and devoted to Linda. He represents stability and success but may lack the emotional depth and artistic sensitivity that Linda craves.

Adrian

Adrian is a free spirit, carefree, and adventurous. He offers Linda a different perspective on life and challenges her to embrace her artistic side fully.

Billy Fallon

Billy is caring, protective, and loyal towards Linda. He provides a sense of stability and support in Linda's life.

Character Background

Linda Fallon

Linda grew up in a small New England town and had a difficult childhood. Her family struggled with financial hardships, which influenced her desire to escape through writing. Linda's experiences shaped her artistic sensibilities and her longing for deeper connections.

Thomas Janes

Thomas Janes grew up in a similar small New England town as Linda. He developed a passion for poetry and writing at a young age, which eventually led to his success as a poet.

Julian

Julian comes from a privileged background and pursued a successful career as an attorney. He met Linda during their college years and fell in love with her artistic spirit.

Adrian

Adrian is a bohemian artist who has traveled extensively. He met Julian during their college years and became close friends. Adrian's nomadic lifestyle and unconventional choices set him apart from the other characters.

Billy Fallon

Billy grew up alongside Linda and has always been protective of her. He followed a different path, working in a blue-collar job to provide for his family.

Character Arcs

Linda Fallon

Throughout the story, Linda experiences a complex character arc. She confronts her past, explores her relationships, and ultimately finds closure. Linda's journey involves self-discovery, healing, and acceptance.

Thomas Janes

Thomas's character arc is intertwined with Linda's. He grapples with his love for Linda and the consequences of their past decisions. Thomas seeks redemption and closure in his relationship with Linda.

Julian

Julian's character arc revolves around his relationship with Linda. He initially represents stability and success, but his journey involves confronting his own insecurities and understanding the complexities of love and art.

Adrian

Adrian's character arc is less prominent but still significant. He serves as a catalyst for Linda's self-discovery and her exploration of her artistic self. Adrian's role is to challenge Linda's perceptions and push her boundaries.

Relationships

Linda and Thomas

Linda and Thomas share a passionate and tumultuous relationship. Their connection is intense, but it is also plagued by past regrets and missed opportunities.

Linda and Julian

Linda and Julian's relationship is more stable and conventional. They build a life together, but Linda's longing for artistic fulfillment and a deeper connection creates tension between them.

Linda and Adrian

Linda and Adrian's relationship is marked by a deep friendship and a shared love for art. Adrian introduces Linda to a different way of living and inspires her to embrace her creativity fully.

Linda and Billy

Linda and Billy's relationship is rooted in sibling loyalty and support. Billy provides a sense of stability and protection in Linda's life.

Conclusion

In "The Last Time They Met" by Anita Shreve, the characters play integral roles in shaping the narrative and exploring themes of love, art, and self-discovery. Linda Fallon, Thomas Janes, Julian, Adrian, and Billy Fallon all contribute to the story's depth and complexity through their unique personalities, backgrounds, and relationships. Through their character arcs, the readers are taken on a journey of introspection, passion, and ultimately, closure.