A Drink Before The War Character Analysis

Words: 542
Pages: 3

Dennis Lehane, an American novelist and screenwriter,began his career in the early 90’s with his first novel A Drink Before the War (1994). Lehane has written several novels based on crime and mystery fiction. The first several were a series of mysteries featuring protagonist and other recurring characters suchPatrick Kenize and Angela Gennaro. A handful of Lehane’s novels have been constructed into films and awarded. Through the use of actual events in the novel, the novel “Mystic River” clearly illustrates the theme of how your past can overpower your life. Throughout the novel “Mystic River” several characters are acquainted with their past and it is resulting in conflicts for them and their family.

Holding onto the past has taken part in a major role in Jimmy Marcuses life. Even though decides to leave his life of crime and run a legitimate business Jimmey is still is acquainted with friends from his past who have not decided to change their lives around. Due to Jimmy still being acquainted with his past detective Sean and Whitey believe someone who has a grudge against him could have possibly killed his daughter Katie. Due to Jimmy letting his past overpower his
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Sean is aware that his life would have been very different if he had gotten into the car. Sean has always been troubled by the kidnapping incident. It has an effect on his thoughts, concerns and motivations. Dwelling on the past has resulted into and unhappy marriage with his wife. The novel “Mystic River” illustrates the theme of how the past can overpower people’s lives. Due to dwelling on the past it has resulted in miserable and/or unhealthy relationships and friendships which all these characters have faced. If Jimmey, Dave and Sean would have dealed with their past and let it go, they would have healthier friendships and relationships and would have been