Jim

The Glass Menagerie-Tennessee Williams

The author describes Jim O'Connor as "a nice, ordinary, young man".  Tom describes him as "the most realistic character, being an emissary from that world of reality that we were set apart from."  In what ways is Jim "nice"?  In what ways is he "ordinary"?  In what ways and in what sense is he more "realistic" than the Wingfields?  Does this mean that he is without delusion?  What would you predict for his future?  Of what is he symbolic?

Jim's quality of "nice" is prevalent in his treatment of Laura.  Many would have ignored her due to her unusual physical and mental situation.  Yet, Jim treats her with the upmost respect and kindness as if nothing is wrong with her at all.  His kindness toward Laura can be traced back to when they were in school.  Talking to social outcasts is extremely uncommon in high school, especially with the popular kids.  So, the fact that he would ask about her condition after being ill with pleurosis.  In addition, he greets her afterwards with the nickname Blue Roses.  I think this offered Laura faith and slightest bit of confidence as well.  Jim is ordinary in that his has led the typical life.  He had a stable high school experience and upholds a rather decent job considering the time period.  He is more realistic because his life path is determined by the present times with his past have little effect on his present life unlike Amanda.  He does not want to escape like Tom and is not enveloped by his character flaws like Laura.  This does not necessarily mean he is without delusion, but that delusion is not a primary force of action in his life.  I see him having a stable future.  He would get married, have kids, experience the normal money struggles, but in the end, be known as a kind man whose character and kindness made all the difference.  According to Tom, Jim is used "...as a symbol; he is the long delayed but always expected something that we live for" (Williams, 1237).  I think this stresses how the conversation with Jim was a critical moment for Laura.  Now, she can progress knowing what she deserves.