In the short story of “Two Fishermen,” a young journalist, Michael Foster, works to report for a newspaper within his small town. He is hardworking as a writer, and aspires to eventually work in a bigger city to continue his career. Attentive and keen, he is eager to observe different events happening in the area. Michael is a tall and long-legged young man, and lives by himself. He seems to be a likeable, friendly person who has formed many relationships with the local townspeople, although he is sometimes too easily persuaded by the views of others. With a timid like personality, is difficult for him to stand up for his own beliefs, or speak out against the main ideas of the town.

 

As Michael forms his relationship with Smitty, it is evident that he easily connects with others. He is an independent worker, and is very sociable due to his training for journalism. At the end of the story, when he conforms to the town’s views of the case, we see Michael’s double sided personality. He is ambitious with his work, but is also flexible in being influenced by the ideas of others. As he easily gives into pressures, his moral dilemma and internal conflict of independence and conformity is shown. Michael is a fairly fearful character, but on the inside is keen to know what is right.

 

Chelsea Davis

English 11 – Block B – Barazzuol