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Summary Of On The Rainy River By Tim O Brien

1626 Words7 Pages

Oftentimes, kindness serves as a guiding force in one’s life, allowing them to determine their destiny. Acts of kindness aid people in their growth and help them reach their full potential. When people don’t experience much kindness in their lives, they can become very bitter and angry, especially when their own kindness isn’t reciprocated by others. This lack of kindness from others can hinder someone’s growth as a human being and not allow them to reach their full potential. On the other hand, when people do experience kindness in their lives, they’re much more likely to feel fulfilled and happy, allowing them to reach their full potential. In “On the Rainy River” the author, Tim O’Brien, delves into the idea that unexpected acts of kindness can act as a catalyst for growth …show more content…

Simple acts of kindness and guidance are frequently the external factors that help solve internal conflict. In Tim’s case, after meeting Elroy and experiencing his unwavering kindness, Tim is able to make a choice and resolve his internal conflict. “I was ashamed to be there at the Tip Top Lodge. I was ashamed of my conscience, ashamed to be doing the right thing” (O’Brien, 8). In this part of the story, Tim is thinking about his current situation and the internal conflict that he’s struggling with. All of his emotions are very conflicting, and he’s unsure of what his next step should be. Should he go to war? Or should he run away to Canada and leave his entire life behind? The irony in this particular situation is that Tim feels guilty for running away to Tip Top Lodge and doing what he believes to be the right thing. In his mind, running away to Canada is the right choice, but he can’t help but be very guilty and feel a lot of shame. This makes him question if returning home and going to war is what he should be doing. “I survived, but it’s not a happy ending. I was a coward of a lot. I went to the war” (O’Brien,

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