Character-Theme Tie-In

The theme of self-realization ties in with Brinker. Brinker thought that he wanted to enlist in the army, but he changes his mind because of his change in perspective. He realized that the war was the exact opposite of what he thought it was, which was horrifying instead of glorifying. Brinker is seen as the one who believes in justice and order. His realization changes his whole course of life and affects some of the others in the book as well. This shows another way that Brinker is seen as the opposite of Finny. Finny cannot stand the fact that he cannot join the army and have a part in the war, however, he does not have the same ability as Brinker and cannot clearly see the true aspects of the war.