In literature, authors often attempt to create meaning by having characters undergo some form of moral reconciliation or spiritual reevaluation. In the case of Dubliners, James Joyce created a series of stories centered on a central epiphany, that of paralysis within a cycle of frustration and disillusionment. The word epiphany is important because it suggests a divine manifestation of some kind. The characters in Joyce's stories are far from being spiritual creatures, and by exposing the unobtrusive and even unpleasant moments of their lives, Joyce leads the reader to sudden realizations about the universal problems of society. In the story "Counterparts", the main character Farrington is a large and vulgar man. He's trapped in a monotonous job as a copyist at a law firm, and it soon becomes clear that he's a raging alcoholic who only cares about his job because it provides him with money to get drunk. “Counterparts” chronicles Farrington's realization that he is trapped in an unsatisfying existence, crippled by his own alcoholism and ignorance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The primary institution of paralysis in Farrington's case is the law firm where he works. Clearly, he feels absolutely trapped in this bureaucracy, having to answer to Mr Alleyne, Mr Shelley and Mr Crosbie. It is easy to understand why he dislikes Mr. Alleyne in particular because being "tall and of great size", Farrington respects strength, virility and athleticism. It's totally frustrating Farrington to be in a subordinate position to a bald "little man" who wears "gold-rimmed glasses." Taking this into account, it is easy to understand why Farrington insults Mr. Alleyne later in the story, because he feels he must assert his perceived superiority. However, this victory is in vain as he is forced to humble himself and apologize if he wants to maintain his position. This is the first of the episodes of emasculation in Farrington's time, all of which stem from his need to assert his own masculinity and strength and are linked to his alcoholism. In many of the Dubliners stories, characters seek escape from the unpleasantness and boredom of their daily lives. In Farrington's case, alcohol and the "comfort of the pub" provide an escape in the form of drunkenness and a rowdy party atmosphere. When he feels angry or passionate, the feeling of "thirst" (an innocent word that belies the miserable nature of alcoholism) becomes stronger and he feels he must quench it immediately. The reader is first alerted to Farrington's addiction to liquor after he goes for a beer after being told off by Mr. Alleyne. Upon his return, dialogue with the clerk reveals that he is not the first. In fact, he performed the same farce of sneaking away “five times in one day.” Clearly, alcohol addiction will lead to Farrington's downfall, and this is evident when he fails to complete his copy at the end of the day and is almost fired when the alcohol he drank loosens his tongue so much that he can no longer to do it. consider the consequences of insulting Mr. Alleyne. Despite being forced to apologise, Farrington still feels he has the right to brag about his initial "triumph". Having no more money to spend, he is reduced to using his watch to have fun. However, the evening of revelry he imagines is not in line with the true course of events. At first he is happy because he has money in his pocket and all his friends praise him and offer him drinks, but then he is snubbed by a beautiful woman he is attracted to. This is the first episode of.