ADJECTIVES TO DESCRIBE FRANCIS

Question 1

list them

Answer 1

Guilty – He constantly struggles with guilt over both surviving the war and failing to protect Nicole.

Ashamed – Francis is deeply ashamed of his disfigured appearance and past actions.

Traumatised – His experiences in war and childhood have left emotional and psychological scars.

Insecure – He hides his face and avoids attention, showing how uncomfortable he is with himself.

Self-loathing – He often criticises himself and sees no value in his life after the war.

Haunted – By memories of Nicole, Larry LaSalle, and the war – his past controls his present.

Determined – Despite his internal suffering, he sets out to find and confront Larry.

Heroic (ironically) – He receives a Silver Star but doesn’t see himself as a hero — this irony is central to the novel.

Loyal – Especially towards Nicole, even after what happened between them.

Sensitive – He’s emotionally vulnerable, reflecting deeply on love, shame, and forgiveness.

Observant – He notices subtle details, especially in others’ behaviour, which shows his reflective nature.

Lonely – Francis is isolated both physically and emotionally throughout the novel.

Courageous – True bravery lies not just in war but in facing painful truths — Francis does both.

Remorseful – He constantly regrets his inaction during Nicole’s assault and seeks redemption.

BESOTTED BY NICOLE