ADJECTIVES TO DESCRIBE NICOLE

Question 1

list them

Answer 1

Innocent – She begins the novel with a sense of purity, untouched by trauma or betrayal.
“The pale purity of her face reminded me of the statue of St. Therese.”

Playful – Her teasing of Francis (“Don’t fall off the banister”) shows her light-hearted, childlike humour.

Naive – She doesn’t see danger in people like Larry, reflecting her youth and trust in adults.

Carefree – Early scenes show her enjoying skating, friendships, and social life without fear or stress.

Youthful – Her character reflects the excitement, optimism, and energy of being a young teenager.

Graceful – She moves elegantly, especially while skating; Francis sees her almost as a figure of beauty and light.
“She seemed to glide across the floor.”

Charming – Nicole’s warmth and friendliness naturally attract attention and affection.

Intelligent – She shows awareness and insight, especially later in the novel when reflecting on the past.

Trusting – She puts her faith in Francis and Larry, both of whom betray her in different ways.

Victimised – Larry LaSalle’s assault makes her one of the most tragic figures in the novel.

Wounded (emotionally) – After the assault, she becomes more withdrawn, guarded, and changed.

Broken – Francis recognises that she has been changed forever by what happened:
“She had changed.”

Distant – In her final scene, she speaks in a flat, detached tone, revealing emotional distance and self-protection.

Resentful – She bitterly tells Francis “You didn’t do anything,” showing her anger and sense of betrayal.

Independent – She moves away from Frenchtown, rebuilding her life on her own terms.

Brave – Despite her pain, she chooses to face Francis and speak the truth calmly.

Mature – Her final conversation shows growth and emotional control — she no longer seeks revenge but closure.

Symbolic – Nicole becomes a symbol of innocence lost, the consequences of abuse, and the effects of silence and complicity.