What Would John Dowell Do: Establishing Meaningful Connections

John Dowell is a man characterized by his penchant for thought and analysis, yet innately bound to his trusting, idealistic nature. He appears to lack the necessary social mechanisms that would provide him with the ability to discern the deceptive nature of others, and to truly connect with others in a meaningful way. In reading Dowell's humble lamentations, one regards his isolated role amidst all that is occurring around him. Although he seems an intelligent, observant man, his detachment is magnified in many ways. For one, Dowell seems to project his good nature onto others as can be seen by his often sympathetic demeanor towards characters who have wronged him, particularly Edward. Dowell lacks a certain social presence, perhaps concerning himself with his personal reality more so than that of the one outside of him. In this aspect, John Dowell and Jane Eyre share some similarities, although it can be said that Dowell never truly found a way in which to reconcile himself with the external world, as Jane did.

John Dowell perhaps wanted to believe that life could proceed in an orderly, anticipated way. He perhaps believed that those around him thought the same way he did, which detracted from his ability to see the truth. In many ways, I feel that I am like John Dowell because I strive for meaningful connections only to too often realize that I have become deluded by an idea or image in my head, rather than facing an objective reality. A situation I have experienced that pertains to such, revolves largely around the music I listen to (metal) and befriending individuals in the local scene. Dowell often seems to fall into the habit of likening himself to his peers. Due to social class and standing, Dowell views Edward and Leonora as equals, and furthermore, friends. But to base a friendship on such things is presumptuous. Often times, I cannot escape the mentality that because people listen to the same music as me, share my interests, and resemble me - they must be genuine, they must be "one of my kind." But as one soon will find, this is not always the case. I still feel as though I have struggled to establish meaningful connections with others in life, both in the music scene and outside of it. If John Dowell was in my situation, I doubt he would act much differently. Surely his past experiences, like mine, would make him all the more wary, but I also think that he retains an undying ember of hope in the face of humankind.

I do, too.