Ironweed: Homelessness and Francis Essay Example

with his son, recognizing the significance of the father-son connection.

Francis had a deep admiration for his father, viewing him as his role model. However, he felt distant from his mother and didn't receive the same level of love and care from her. His father was employed as a railroad worker but met a tragic end in a train accident one day. This event deeply affected Francis, especially because he blamed himself partially for it. The accident happened while Francis was waving to his father across the road, which caused distraction and ultimately led to his father's death.

The prominent reason for Francis's troubled relationships is his rejection of his family and loved ones, which is evident throughout the book. However, there is a transformation in his character as he not only visits Gerald and his dad's grave but also reunites with Billy. Ironweed challenges the common perception of homeless individuals as worthless and lazy, exploring the theme of homelessness. Society tends to believe that their situation is a result of their own choices rather than uncontrollable circumstances. Kennedy's novel portrays homelessness as a consequence of desperate choices made when individuals feel they have no other options, emphasizing that homeless people do have choices in determining the direction of their lives.

Francis' drinking exemplifies this point, as he turned to alcohol as a way to cope with his depression and became trapped in the cycle of alcoholism. This demonstrates that homelessness can be attributed to personal choices. However, Kennedy does not intend to demean homeless individuals; he recognizes their integrity and their refusal to accept money from others. Throughout the novel, he

presents different events and decisions that could lead someone down a path of homelessness and destitution. This overarching idea implies that while becoming homeless may be an act of desperation, it is still a choice made by individuals. The concept of "home" plays a vital role in understanding the human experience. Lastly, survival emerges as another significant theme within the narrative.

Finding overnight accommodation on the streets as a homeless person is extremely difficult. Helen, before meeting Francis, engaged in sexual activities with men solely to secure shelter for survival rather than pleasure. She would do whatever necessary to ensure her continued existence, even if it meant accepting advances from certain men that could result in sexual assault or murder. This book explores the theme that individuals will take any actions necessary for their survival, disregarding moral or ethical considerations. In the opening chapters of the novel, Francis faces court summons due to his multiple registrations to vote in the election - a total of 21 times.

Due to being slightly intoxicated and desiring change, Francis enlisted the assistance of Marcus Gorman, a highly skilled lawyer in Albany. With Marcus's expertise, the charges against Francis were dismissed, resulting in his freedom. However, Francis lacked the funds to compensate Gorman for his services. Instead of resorting to legal measures or personal vengeance, Gorman allowed Francis to work in order to repay his debt. Consequently, Francis found employment at the cemetery, where he reconnected with departed acquaintances. This served as a testament to his ability to endure and persevere. In order to avoid imprisonment and ensure his survival, Francis required the aid of a competent

attorney.

Francis, once innocent, felt the need to repay Gorman, so he started working. His actions were driven by the necessity to survive another day. Ironweed, a novel authored by William Kennedy, is a profound and thought-provoking book. It encompasses various themes that lead readers to contemplate both societal and human morals. Through depicting the son-father relationship, the concept of home and homelessness, and the struggle for survival, the book conveys its significance and provides insight into the author's intentions. These interconnecting themes are prevalent and essential for a comprehensive understanding of Ironweed.