"The Battler" Summary

Nick is thrown out of a moving train and comes to the bottom of the train tracks. On his way back, he meets a homeless man, Adolph Francis, who is deformed. Another man, Bugs, joins them and they have dinner together. Suddenly, Francis turns on Nick and threatens to hurt him. Bugs knocks out Francis and explains to Nick that Francis is crazy because his wife left him. Nick continues toward the town, alone.

"The Battler" Analysis

Nick's independence is further tested during his time on the road. His attempts to form relationships with strangers are problematic and he is unable to handle the changing emotions of those around him. Adolph Francis' life provides an interesting symbolic contrast for Nick, who often has problems with women. The symbolism is extended further in the problems that Nick has in developing...