What is wrong with Woolly in The Lincoln Highway?
The Lincoln Highway, a novel by Amor Towles, is a gripping tale set in the 1950s that explores themes of race, identity, and the American Dream. However, there is a character named Woolly whose portrayal raises some questions and concerns. What is wrong with Woolly in The Lincoln Highway, and why does his character seem to be overshadowed by others?
Firstly, Woolly’s character is underdeveloped and lacks depth. Despite being a significant part of the narrative, his personality and motivations remain unclear. This lack of character development leaves readers feeling disconnected from Woolly, making it difficult to empathize with his experiences and struggles. In contrast, other characters like Will and Vivian are well-rounded and have compelling backstories, which makes their journeys more engaging.
Secondly, Woolly’s role in the story seems to be more of a plot device than a fully-fledged character. His interactions with the other characters are often superficial, and his presence does not add much to the overall story. This raises the question of whether Woolly’s inclusion in the novel was necessary, or if he could have been replaced with a more fully-developed character without affecting the plot.
Furthermore, Woolly’s portrayal as a black man in a predominantly white narrative raises concerns about racial representation. While the novel does address issues of race, Woolly’s character seems to be reduced to a stereotype, which can be problematic. His interactions with other characters often revolve around his race, rather than his individuality, which can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and undermine the novel’s potential to challenge racial biases.
Another issue with Woolly’s character is the lack of agency. Throughout the novel, Woolly is portrayed as a passive character, often reacting to the actions of others rather than taking control of his own destiny. This lack of agency can be frustrating for readers, as it diminishes Woolly’s importance and relevance to the story.
In conclusion, what is wrong with Woolly in The Lincoln Highway is a combination of underdevelopment, a lack of agency, and a portrayal that perpetuates harmful stereotypes. While the novel does tackle significant themes, Woolly’s character seems to be an afterthought, which ultimately diminishes the impact of the story. A more fully-developed and empowered character could have provided a richer and more meaningful exploration of the novel’s themes.
