Ideal Perfectionism The idea of “perfection” is impractical; this is basically the definition of idealism. Believing that everything can be perfect and everything turns out-much like romanticism, which is also impractical. In “The Idealist”, Delaney feels these invisible presences are the epitome of perfection: “I wanted to say I had been at Mass, but I couldn’t. The invisible presences were all about me.” These presences encourage him to tell the truth and make an example of himself. He looked up to these presences as if they could do no wrong, stating simply: “I had the example of the invisible presences to sustain me. I did not flinch.” Delaney stuck beside these presences even when he got in trouble and was punished,
Although we do not…show more content… Delaney tried to be a good example throughout the book, and never uses the excuse that he was at mass. There was never a ‘perfect’ moment in the book. From the accusation of theft, to the fight with Gorman, to the end of the book, nothing was ever perfect: “‘I was delayed at the barrack, sir.’” he simply stated after being confronted by the Murderer for being late. Later on the playground, he’s confronted by other students: “‘Delaney, why did you say that about the barrack?’ ‘Because ‘twas true,’ I replied firmly. ‘I wasn’t going to tell him a lie.’” This seems perfect; he’s telling the truth, accepts punishment, and gave no excuses. And yet he still gave up: “I couldn’t help feeling that it wasn’t worth it. But before the invisible presences fled forever, I made another effort.”.....”’What kept you, Delaney?’ the Murderer asked quietly. I knew it was no good. “I was at Mass, sir.” Delaney gave up his idea of perfection; he stopped trying to be the model of the school. He was no longer the hero he wanted to be, so he changed to the hero he thought he could
