The Character of Brad Dolan

Brad Dolan, the cruel orderly at Georgia Pines, mirrors Percy Wetmore, representing the persistence of petty evil.

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Dolan's Cruelty

A Modern Percy The Bully Brad Dolan torments the elderly residents. He calls Paul "Paulie" and squeezes his wrist. He is mean-spirited. The Jokes Dolan carries books of sick jokes. He laughs at others' pain. He is a smaller version of Percy. The Curiosity Dolan is suspicious of Paul's walks. He tries to uncover Paul's secret. His nosiness is a form of control.

Dolan's Defeat

A Temporary Victory Elaine's Threat Elaine reveals her grandson is Speaker of the House. Dolan backs down. He is a coward at heart. The Shed Incident Dolan discovers Mr. Jingles and startles him to death. He is triumphant but ultimately empty. The Cycle Continues Dolan is not punished. He will continue to bully others. The novel suggests that cruelty never ends.

1990s, at Georgia Pines

1990s, at Georgia Pines