Tom Brennan Identity Analysis

A strong sense of identity is largely dependent on family and social standing within the community. The venturing into new worlds acts as a catalyst for the development of an individual’s identity. J.C Burke’s novel ‘The Story of Tom Brennan’ follows the life of Tom Brennan as he completes his final year of high school. This novel effectively demonstrates how an individual’s identity can be impacted positively or negatively when undertaking new experiences.
The use of first person narrative invites the audience into Tom’s mind and heart as well his introspection. His emotional state shows how individuals and families are affected by Daniel’s actions. This is further reflected in the opening pages of the prologue ‘My name is Tom Brennan and this is my story’. This quote expresses Tom’s identity as one full of internal battles. Similarly, the quote ‘my father, Joseph Brennan, closed the front door of our home for the last time’ effectively expresses the negative consequences of transitioning and the need for the family to open up a new chapter and journey of their life as a result of Daniel’s actions. His action has acted as a catalyst for his family to move into Coghill and having the need
This is the start of a positive step and consequence as Tom takes on the climb. The climb has been instrumental for his progression into the world, his optimism and the challenges he encounters in which determines the end result either positively or negatively. This is shown through the use of colloquial language ‘we’ve got to leave our ghosts behind’. Tom takes on the challenge and learns many new things that he never knew before. Furthermore, Kylie also meets a friend, begins smoking and cutting her hair. These are all ways in which characters in the novel feel a sense of relief and happiness and a way of dealing with the issue their brother Daniel has