Outline
Broad Subject: Morality
Specific Topic: Shiftlet’s distorted sense of morality
Thesis Statement: In Flannery O’Connor’s “The Life You Save May Be
Your Own,” Shiftlet, a mean-spirited loner with distorted morals,
abandons an innocent girl who has been victimized by her mental and
physical limitations.
Supporting Points:
1. Shiftlet’s calculating nature
2. Shiftlet’s plans of escape
3. Shiftlet’s abandonment of the young girl
Supporting Statements:
1. Shiftlet portrays himself as a man of honesty, but his selfish concern
for himself reveals his calculating nature.
2. Although Shiftlet pretends to be interested in Lucynell, he
strategically plots his escape from her.
3. Leaving nothing to chance, Shiftlet ultimately abandons
Lucynel without her mother's knowledge.
Concluding Statement: Shiftlet is a deceitful drifter who remains true
to his character, further victimizing a young girl who is mentally and
physically incapable of preventing what is happening to her.
Title: Flannery O'Connor's "The Life You Save May Be Your Own"
Mode of Development (type of writing): Character Analysis
In Flannery O'Connor's "The Life You Save May Be Your Own," the character of Shiftlet is portrayed as a mean-spirited loner with distorted morals. Despite presenting himself as a man of honesty, Shiftlet's true nature is revealed through his calculating behavior, his plans of escape, and ultimately, his abandonment of the innocent young girl, Lucynell.
Shiftlet's calculating nature is evident in the way he manipulates those around him. He portrays himself as a kind and helpful individual, but his actions are driven by selfish motives. His concern for himself outweighs any genuine care he may have for Lucynell, leading him to ultimately betray her trust.
Throughout the story, Shiftlet's plans of escape become increasingly apparent. Despite initially showing an interest in Lucynell, his true intentions are to leave her behind as he moves on to the next opportunity for self-benefit. This reveals his lack of genuine compassion and empathy towards others, as he is willing to use and abandon those who are unable to defend themselves.
In the end, Shiftlet's abandonment of Lucynell is a cruel and heartless act. Leaving her without her mother's knowledge, he further victimizes a young girl who is mentally and physically incapable of preventing what is happening to her. Shiftlet's actions reflect a distorted sense of morality, where his own desires and goals take precedence over the well-being of others.
Overall, Shiftlet remains true to his deceitful and selfish character throughout the story, ultimately perpetuating harm and injustice towards those who are vulnerable. Flannery O'Connor's portrayal of Shiftlet serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of distorted morals and the impact they can have on those who are most in need of compassion and support.