Three Day Road Peter's Relationship

There are pleasant relationships that can allow for the growth and development for both individuals. A notable example the perfect relationship would be the one between Mac and Peter Marlowe. They have become so close that their relationship is more like family, this is shown when Peter is caring for Mac in the hospital; “Mac closed his eyes and was asleep. Peter Marlowe pulled the blanket off him and dried the husk of the man” (Pg. 161). This scene is crucial; Mac and Peter have known each other long before the war, they were friends back in a prisoner of war camp in World War 1. Their friendship has become so strong because they have gone through some terrible things together. In this scene, Peter treats Mac like family, he takes care for

him while he is sick with malaria by risking his life for decent food and a proper medicine for him. Another prime example of Peter’s abilities to form bonds with people is his moments with The King. The most memorable moments are in the beginning of their partnership, especially their close call with Grey; “Well, that’s obvious, isn’t it? I dropped you in the creek.

I couldn’t leave you holding the baby. What do you think I am?” (Pg. 46). What is significant here is the fact that this is the true beginning of Peter and the King’s relationship. This is where the King realizes this is not a man he can just boss around but instead must learn from him. Peter proves his worth to the King here and thus begins a prosperous friendship. Three Day Road was built around the perfect relationship. Xavier and Elijah were like the faces of a coin, opposite in nature but come together to bring about a valuable relationship. Elijah is the perfect counter to Xavier’s flaws, including when he was not comfortable to talk to the lieutenant in English. Elijah’s response to Xavier’s discomforts was, “” No worries,” Elijah says to me in Cree. “I will come with you”” (Pg. 254). Xavier is not the most extroverted individual and lacks the knowledge of the English language to have basic conversations. What comforts him though is when he finds out his lieutenant wants him, Elijah offers to go there for both support and help with communication. This shows that these two boys are almost inseparable and they would do anything for each other. Their relationship, much like Peter and Mac, developed into a brotherly

relationship. At this point they were inseparable, this is proven when Xavier asks, "Do you think the Canadians will separate us, Elijah?" I try to sound relaxed, a little bored. It takes Elijah a long time to answer, so long that I think he has fallen asleep. He finally speaks in the darkness.

"They'd better not" (Pg. 61). It is shown that the boys have a bond that is almost inseparable, Xavier depends strongly on Elijah in almost a brotherly way. Upon joining the military their first thought is not about life or death, but it is instead questioning whether they will stitch together or not. It is important to realize that Xavier sees Elijah almost like an extension of himself, so if they were separated it would most likely devastate both individuals. Lilo &Stitch is a Disney movie because of this it is filled with many great themes that can be related to everyone’s lives. The idea behind Lilo & Stitch is the aspect of family, Lilo forms these bonds with other characters in the movie that allow for her growth. Her relationship with her sister is far from normal especially with Nani having to take on a motherly role, yet this does not affect their sisterly love; “There is a scene between Lilo and Nina where, just after their fight, they were laughing and fooling around” (Sanders, 2002). Nina is forced to take on a motherly role with Lilo but when the two girls fight, the way they make up shows true sisterly love. The important thing to realize, is that through these fights and arguments, the two sisters can learn from one

another. Thus, building a better bond between the two individuals. Lilo was very influential everyone around her, Stitch was once a monster built for mass destruction yet through Lilo’s love he embraces this idea that; “This is my family. I found it, all on my own. Is little, and broken, but still good. Ya. Still good” (Sanders, 2002). This exact quote was said by Lilo in the beginning of the movie. It shows the growth and development that Stitch has gone through just because of the love and support Lilo has given him. Stitch has learned this saying through the long vigorous hours that Lilo has put in just to help Stitch adapt to society. When he repeats this to the Councilwomen, it shows that he has grown into a prime example of how citizens should act. Over these vast examples of literature, a common theme of friendship has been noted. It is shown in the King Rat, by showing the positive relationships the main protagonist has that allow him to better adapt to his environment. With the novel Three Day Road, the story is based around Xavier’s friendship with Elijah and it becomes clear that they are almost like brothers. Finally, Lilo & Stitch, displays Stitch’s journey to become a better citizen with Lilo guiding him on his way.