Characters

The main character in “The Death of Tommy Grimes” by R.J. Meaddough, III is Tommy Grimes, a 12-year-old boy. Another important character is Tom Grimes, the boy’s father, who influences his son with his views on hunting and life. 

The story focuses on Tommy’s transition from childhood innocence to maturity, as he is taken by his father to hunt what is later revealed to be a black man. Tommy’s thoughts and feelings are shared throughout the story, giving the reader insight into his wish to belong and make his father proud of him. 

The story also mentions other characters, such as the boy’s mother, the men at the Hut, and the runaway black man whom Tommy kills. Nevertheless, the most important aspect is the relationship between father and son. 

Tommy Grimes

Outer characterization

Tommy Grimes is the main character in the short story “The Death of Tommy Grimes” by R.J. Meaddough, III. He is the son of Tom Grimes. Tommy’s mother is briefly mentioned, and the story hints that she is against hunting (p. 2, ll. 1-2). The story reveals that Tommy is 12 years old (p. 1, l. 8) and that he has “dark, blond hair” (p. 4, l. 21). He lives in Mississippi (p. 4, l. 33).

Inner characterization

One year before the main events, Tommy is characterized by innocence. We see this in a flashback about an incident when a weasel gets into the hen-yard and kills 43 hens. Tommy is unable to kill it. Consequently, he is a disappointment to his father, who begins teaching him how to use a rifle. Once he learns and becomes good at it, Tommy’s behavior changes. 

Tommy’s c...