Martin

Outer characterisation

There is little reference to Martin’s outer characterisation in the story. 

Martin works at the swimming pool (ll. 8-10). He likes the narrator (ll. 9-10) and always lets her do one more pool length at closing time (ll. 13-14). It is suggested that the narrator lost her virginity with Martin (ll. 14-15) and that they have an ongoing relationship.

Martin wants to be a lifeguard and own a store someday. He already sells clothing on eBay, and his room is full of boxes of clothes (ll. 45-47). He also owns a moped (l. 127).

Inner chracterisation

Other references to his appearance contribute to his inner characterisation, as perceived by the narrator. For example, she describes him as looking “halfway puzzled” (l. 171) when she tells him she will go for another swim in the ocean. Martin’s i...