Duane

Outer characterization

The main character of Raymond Carver’s “Gazebo” is Duane. He is also the narrator of the story, and events are seen from his perspective. He is married to Holly and, according to Holly, he had married her when they were both very young. 

 Duane is a manager at a motel together with Holly. Duane “saw the grounds, mowed the grass and cut the weeds, kept the swimming pool clean” and “did the small repairs”. He also works a night job. The job Duane does shows that he most likely comes from a working-class background. Duane also seems to be an alcoholic and starts drinking heavily and neglecting his duties when his wife finds out about his affair with the Mexican maid.

Inner characterization

At first, Duane seems to have a good relationship with Holly, until he...