Characters
Dion Anthony
Dion Anthony emerges as a "lean and wiry" artist entangled in a world dominated by materialism. His artistic essence is cloaked in the metaphorical mask he dons, representing the tension between his poetic soul and the harsh realities he encounters. Initially, this mask exudes the carefree, rebellious spirit of a "sensual young Pan," yet it also conceals his deeper sensitivity. Over time, it morphs into a "bitter, mocking Mephistopheles," echoing his internal turmoil and growing disillusionment.
From a young age, Dion's creative spirit is stifled by self-destructive habits such as drinking and gambling. These hardships manifest in the artistic mask, serving as a defense against a world he perceives as treacherous, particularly following the betrayal by his friend Billy Brown. This betrayal steers Dion towards a path of "cruel indifference," and he wrestles with his fears and desires in a profound self-reflection:
"Why am I afraid to dance, I who love music and rhythm and grace and song and laughter? Why am I afraid to live, I who love life and the beauty of flesh and the living colors of earth and sky and sea? Why am I afraid of love, I who love love? Why must I pretend to scorn in order to pity? Why must I hide myself in self-contempt in order to understand? Why must I be so ashamed of my strength, so proud of my weakness? Why must I live in a cage like a criminal, defying and hating, I who love peace and friendship. Why was I born without a skin, oh God, that I must wear armor in order to touch or to be touched."
Despite his attempts to reveal his true self to his wife, Margaret, her inability to embrace his vulnerabilities forces him to retreat further behind his mask. His artistic failures and Margaret's lack of understanding exacerbate his burgeoning cynicism. Dion's struggle extends to his faith, as he seeks divine salvation but feels forsaken, captured in his plea, "I will come—but where are you, Savior?" This spiritual conflict is heightened by his reluctant submission to capitalism, embodied by the "Great God Brown." Ultimately, Dion's benevolence allows him to forgive Billy, acknowledging, "God forgive me the evil I've done him." His life reaches its conclusion in the forgiveness of others, culminating in his request for Billy to assume his role as husband and father, dying with the visage of a "Christian martyr."
Dion's narrative is a tragic one, underpinned by the enduring struggle of a sensitive artist in a callous world. His attempts at redemption through forgiveness are a poignant reminder of his intrinsic kindness, overshadowed by a life marred with disillusionment and betrayal.
William A. (Billy) Brown
William A. (Billy) Brown stands as a handsome, prosperous architect, epitomizing the quintessential successful businessman with a "likeable smile and a frank good-humored face." However, beneath this charming exterior lies an individual consumed by jealousy and unreciprocated love for Margaret, which drives him to betray Dion by usurping credit for his architectural designs. This duplicity contributes significantly to Dion's downfall.
Following Dion's demise, Billy adopts Dion's identity, donning his mask and attire, deceiving both Margaret and others around him. This duplicity burdens Billy with the "suffering face" tormented by Dion's mask. He quickly realizes the futility of replicating Dion's creative spirit and mourns the loss of his authentic self, declaring, "you’re dead, William Brown, dead beyond hope of resurrection." His struggle with identity is further compounded by self-loathing, prompting existential questions regarding his societal roles and existence.
Billy’s eventual collapse compels him to confront his deficiencies, seeking solace in religion akin to...
(This entire section contains 1241 words.)
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Dion's search. He questions his moral degradation, yearning for the strength to dismantle the masks he wears and for sincere belief in a higher power. In his final moments, Billy perceives a semblance of tranquility, hearing God’s voice, hinting at a reconciliation with his fate.
Billy's journey is marked by ambition overshadowed by envy and deceit, leading him down a path of self-destruction. His attempt to usurp Dion's identity only amplifies his internal chaos, culminating in a desperate search for redemption.
Margaret Anthony
Margaret Anthony, Dion's wife, is portrayed as a "pretty and vivacious" young woman, her hopeful disposition masking her anxiety over Dion's decline. She too wears a mask, an "almost transparent reproduction of her own features," reflecting societal expectations and her need for emotional protection. Her affection for Dion is genuine, yet she struggles to accept his vulnerabilities, perceiving him as a "crazy child" in need of nurturing.
Margaret's mask transitions to reveal the courageous facade she presents to the world, concealing her suffering and disillusionment. Her steadfast belief in Dion's potential as an artist stems from love, although Dion himself questions whether this stems from "blindness" or "pity." As Dion's failures accumulate, Margaret's disillusionment deepens, yet her love remains unwavering. Following Dion's death, she pledges eternal love, despite the heartache they both endured.
Margaret's character epitomizes the struggle of unconditional love faced with insurmountable disappointment. Her devotion to Dion, though fraught with challenges, endures beyond his demise, attesting to her unwavering affection.
Mr. Anthony
Mr. Anthony, Dion’s father, is described as "a tall lean man" with a "grim, defensive face," embodying obstinate and often unsupportive authority. His relationship with Dion is marked by mutual alienation, primarily due to his critical and unsupportive nature. Initially resistant to the idea of sending Dion to college, he relents only when it aligns with his aspirations for Dion to overshadow Billy Brown in success. This pragmatic decision underscores his desire to maintain the family's status rather than genuine paternal support.
Mr. Anthony's critical demeanor and lack of familial warmth contribute significantly to Dion's isolation and feelings of inadequacy. The relationship between father and son is one of distant obligation rather than nurturing support, exacerbating Dion's internal struggles.
Mrs. Anthony
Mrs. Anthony is depicted as a "thin frail faded woman" with a "sweet and gentle face," exuding a nervous yet tender disposition. She continually attempts to bolster Dion's confidence in his artistic abilities, revealing a poignant blend of pride and vulnerability. Her pride in Dion's talents conflicts with her inability to shield him from his father’s harshness.
Dion’s description of her as "a sweet, strange girl" locked in a "dark closet without any explanation" captures her compassionate yet constrained essence. Her death represents a profound loss for Dion, as she was his sole source of unconditional affection, intensifying his feelings of solitude.
Mrs. Anthony's character embodies the quiet strength and unconditional love a mother provides, even in the face of adversity and personal limitations. Her influence, though subtle, is a significant aspect of Dion's early life.
Cybel
Cybel is described as a "strong, calm, sensual blonde" who offers Dion a haven in her home. Though she plays the role of a prostitute, her true nature aligns more closely with that of a nurturing "unmoved idol of Mother Earth." Cybel provides a maternal figure for both Dion and Billy, offering them a space to confront their inner realities sans their masks.
Her unwavering support and grounded nature serve as a stabilizing force amidst the chaos in their lives. Cybel's role is crucial in allowing Dion and Billy to reveal their authentic selves, providing them a rare respite from their respective turmoil.
Cybel's presence offers a sanctuary of authenticity and acceptance, highlighting the healing power of empathy and unconditional support in a world rife with deception and betrayal.
