The Secret Sharer 2
In the novel The Secret Sharer, by Joseph Conrad, a man at sea struggles with loneliness and moral dilemma. However, the narrator has saved himself on multiple levels by the end of the novel. His confidence grows as he learns about himself, as well as when he learns of Leggatt, a man much like him. Throughout the novel, Conrad uses symbolism and the thoughts of the protagonist in order to suggest that one must know oneself in order to possess a life with motivation and confidence in oneself.
On many occasions, Conrad uses Leggatt as a mirror of the narrator, enabling the narrator to become more familiar with himself. When the narrator states, "I had become so connected in thoughts and ...
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and as he reveals this contemplation, he shows a change in character and a development in confidence in himself.
As the narrator becomes confident that he has saved his "double", he becomes more confident in himself and his ability to command the ship. While Leggatt is still onboard, the narrator shtates, "...I was a total stranger to the ship." By acknowledging that he does not yet have a feel for how the ship maneuvers, the narrator displays a lack of self-confidence. After Leggatt leaves, the captain states that, "No one in the world should stand now between us, throwing a shadow on the way of silent knowledge and mute affection, the perfect communion of a seaman with his first command." It now becomes apparent that the captain finds himself, is in control of himself, and feels confident enough in himself to effectively command the ship.
It seems that throughout The Secret Sharer, Conrad uses the narrator's ship as a mirror of the change in character that the narrator ...
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The Secret Sharer 2. (2005, May 7). Retrieved May 21, 2025, from http://www.essayworld.com/essays/The-Secret-Sharer-2/26538
"The Secret Sharer 2." Essayworld.com. Essayworld.com, 7 May. 2005. Web. 21 May. 2025. <http://www.essayworld.com/essays/The-Secret-Sharer-2/26538>
"The Secret Sharer 2." Essayworld.com. May 7, 2005. Accessed May 21, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/The-Secret-Sharer-2/26538.
"The Secret Sharer 2." Essayworld.com. May 7, 2005. Accessed May 21, 2025. http://www.essayworld.com/essays/The-Secret-Sharer-2/26538.
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