Vivian.

Abstract

'Any marriage, happy or unhappy, is infinitely more interesting than any romance, no matter how passionate.' (W.H. Auden). Walt and Vivian are unhappily married, living in a tent-camp during the early part of the Great Depression. Walt's physical strength ensures employment wherever they travel. The story opens with the burial of the couple's newborn triplets. Vivian says they fell. Walt wants to believe her. Vivian eventually pawns her husband's heirlooms to buy a train ticket. Walt follows, needing to take care of her because of his wedding vows - yet Vivian is not an easy woman to love and cherish. She is also exceedingly difficult to protect, as Vivian leaves several dead bodies in her wake. Walt battles more with his own moral values than he does with Vivian. At times, his inaction seems to be a strength and, at other times, a weakness. After numerous altercations and uncomfortably close encounters with the law, Walt realizes their tumultuous marriage must end - one way or another. Above all, this must be done without breaking his vows. Vivian manifests a multitude of mental woes which cause her anti-social behavior. The plot is that of journey - both masculine and feminine. It is full of irony, religious symbolism, anecdotal motivation and vigilante tendencies. Ultimately, Walt and Vivian need each other.