Arnold Friend is a character from the famous short story titled “Where are you going, Where have you been?” written by Joyce Carol Oates in 1966. Arnold Friend is not just a man but a symbol of evil and violence. He is portrayed as a smooth-talking teenager who wants to impress and charm the protagonist, Connie. With his devilish appearance and persuasive words, he manipulates Connie into leaving her familiar surroundings and following him into the unknown.
Arnold Friend embodies the notion of temptation and seduction that young adults can face. He is an archetype of a predator who hunts for vulnerable youth to exploit their innocence. He represents the fear of the unknown and the danger that comes with it. Arnold Friend is a recurring metaphor for the peril that lies beneath the surface of our society. He is a constant reminder that we are not as safe as we like to believe and that evil can show up in unexpected ways.
In conclusion, Arnold Friend symbolizes the menacing force that is always present in our society. He represents the danger of deception and manipulation that is often used to lure in young people. He is a pervasive reminder that the world can be a treacherous place, and we must always be vigilant in our interactions with strangers. So next time you encounter someone who seems too good to be true, beware and proceed with caution.
Arnold Friend’s Physical Appearance
Arnold Friend’s physical appearance in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is a direct representation of evil in human form. He is described as having a “face that was a familiar face, somehow–although the name he was thinking of escapes her” (Oates 3). This suggests that Arnold’s appearance is not his own but rather a fabricated illusion. He is dressed in a flashy attire, wearing tight-fitting jeans, a striped shirt, and boots that make him appear taller than he actually is. The following are other physical attributes that Arnold Friend symbolizes:
- Hair: Arnold Friend’s hair looks as though it is a wig, curled and sprayed to perfection. The hair is also described as being “bright as if it were filled with light” (Oates 6), which could suggest a supernatural element to his character.
- Eyes: Arnold Friend’s eyes are what ultimately reveal his true identity. They are described as “laughing, but with a separate, hidden knowledge in them” (Oates 4). This hidden knowledge could be interpreted as his ability to manipulate and deceive.
- Teeth: Arnold Friend’s teeth are “big and white” (Oates 5), and his smile is described as “a little lopsided” (Oates 5). This suggests a possible deformity or malice.
In addition to his physical appearance, Arnold Friend’s interaction with Connie mirrors that of a predator stalking its prey. He is persistent, ignores her protests, and shows no empathy towards her feelings. Connie realizes too late that Arnold Friend is not the charming boy she thought he was but rather a dangerous figure intent on harming her.
Overall, Arnold Friend’s physical appearance represents the danger that can lurk in plain sight, using a disguise to lure unsuspecting victims. His presence serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of being wary of strangers and recognizing when something is not quite as it seems.
The meaning behind Arnold Friend’s name
Arnold Friend, the mysterious character in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”, has a name that carries symbolic significance. Here, we take a closer look at the meaning behind his name:
- Arnold: Derived from the Germanic name “Arnwald,” which means “eagle power.” Eagles are known for their strength, courage, and sharp vision, which could all be attributed to Arnold Friend’s character.
- Friend: On the surface, this seems to contradict the dark nature of Arnold Friend’s intentions towards Connie. However, the name may be a clever disguise for his true identity and intentions. Using a friendly name could help him gain Connie’s trust and ultimately lead to her downfall.
- The number two: While not directly related to Arnold Friend’s name, the number two appears frequently in the story and could hold symbolic significance. Connie is described as having “two friends” at the beginning, and Arnold Friend’s car has a license plate that reads “33.” This could suggest the duality of Connie’s innocence and temptation, or the idea of a split personality within Arnold Friend.
Overall, the name Arnold Friend provides important clues to his character that readers can use to gain a deeper understanding of the story’s themes. It’s important to pay attention to symbolism when analyzing literature, as it can often reveal hidden meanings.
Arnold Friend’s manipulation tactics
Arnold Friend is a master manipulator who uses a range of tactics to gain control over his victims. His ability to charm and deceive is a key part of his modus operandi, and he employs a series of psychological ploys to draw his targets in and gradually wear down their defenses. One of the most striking aspects of Arnold Friend’s manipulation is his use of the number 3, which appears throughout the story as a symbol of his power and control.
- Use of repetition: Arnold Friend frequently repeats certain phrases and ideas three times in a row, creating a hypnotic effect that lulls his victims into submission. For example, he tells Connie: “Gonna get you, baby. We’re gonna get you. We’re gonna get you, baby.”
- Triple threats: Arnold Friend often uses three different ways to intimidate his victims, using a combination of physical, psychological, and emotional tactics. For instance, he threatens to hurt Connie’s family, insults her appearance, and promises to seduce her all at once.
- Symbolic importance: The number 3 has a symbolic meaning in many cultures, often representing aspects of balance, harmony, and completeness. In the story, however, this symbolism is subverted, and Arnold Friend uses the power of three to create chaos and destruction. He is a force of disruption and imbalance, and his use of the number 3 reflects this.
Overall, Arnold Friend’s use of the number 3 is a key part of his manipulation tactics, and it demonstrates his ability to control and influence his victims. By using the power of repetition, triple threats, and symbolic imagery, he creates a sense of unease and vulnerability in his targets, ultimately leading them to make choices that they might not have made otherwise. Understanding the ways in which he uses the number 3 is key to unraveling the mystery of his character and the impact he has on the story as a whole.
Arnold Friend’s connection to Satan
Arnold Friend, the enigmatic antagonist in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is a literary symbol that has been interpreted in multiple ways. One of the most intriguing interpretations is Arnold Friend’s connection to Satan, the ultimate embodiment of evil in Christianity.
- Four Fingers: One of the most disturbingly striking features of Arnold Friend is his mismatched fingers. One of them is a prosthetic painted gold and the other three are long, thin, and distorted. This has been interpreted to represent the “mark of the Beast.” In the Bible’s Book of Revelations, the number 666 is the mark of the Beast, and Arnold’s four fingers represent that symbol.
- “My sweet little blue-eyed girl”: Arnold Friend’s manipulation of Connie’s identity references Satan’s manipulation of Eve in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis, Satan spoke to Eve in the form of a serpent, saying “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” Like Arnold, Satan convinces Eve that he is someone she knows and trusts.
- The Vehicle: Arnold’s golden convertible is another symbol of his demonic nature. It has been interpreted to represent the chariot that was used to transport Elijah to heaven in 2 Kings 2:11-12. The chariot was supposed to be pulled by horses of fire, but Arnold’s car is powered by himself. This represents his supernatural and demonic powers.
Overall, Arnold Friend’s connections to Satan can be seen through his physical attributes, his manipulation of Connie, and the symbolization of his vehicle. This adds another level of depth to the story and gives readers an ominous sense of foreboding.
The Symbolism of Arnold Friend’s Car
Arnold Friend’s car, a gold convertible, is a prominent symbol throughout the short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” by Joyce Carol Oates. The car represents a sense of illusion and temptation, ultimately leading to Connie’s vulnerability and downfall. Here are five subtopics explaining the significance of Arnold Friend’s car:
- Power and Control: Arnold’s car is a means of power and control over Connie. The fact that he has a car in the first place is a symbol of freedom and independence, something Connie desperately wants. The car is then used as a tool of manipulation, luring Connie away from her family and into Arnold’s control.
- Deception and Illusion: The shiny gold exterior of Arnold’s car is representative of the facade he presents to Connie. Just as the car is alluring and gleaming, Arnold’s charm and charisma initially entice Connie. However, just as the underbelly of the car is grimy and dirty, Arnold’s true intentions are revealed to be sinister and dangerous.
- Cultural Significance: The car represents a part of American culture during the 1960s, a time period marked by newfound freedom and autonomy. The car also plays into the common trope of masculinity, as driving and owning a car was seen as a rite of passage for teenage boys.
- Transgression: The car is a symbol of crossing boundaries and breaking rules. Connie’s initial attraction to Arnold is due to his “bad boy” persona, which is heightened by the car. Her decision to leave her house and enter the car represents her willingness to transgress societal norms and engage in risky behavior.
- Symbolism of the Color: The gold color of the car is significant in several ways. It is a symbol of wealth and glamour, further emphasizing Arnold’s deception. Additionally, gold is a color associated with the sun, often seen as a symbol of life and rebirth. In this case, however, it’s more ominous and eerie, signifying a sense of impending doom.
| Symbolism | Description |
|---|---|
| Power and Control | The car represents Arnold’s control over Connie |
| Deception and Illusion | The gold exterior of the car is synonymous with Arnold’s facade |
| Cultural Significance | The car is representative of American culture during the 1960s, a time period marked by newfound freedom and masculinity |
| Transgression | The car represents Connie’s willingness to engage in risky behavior and cross boundaries |
| Symbolism of the Color | The gold color symbolizes wealth and glamour, as well as a sense of unease and impending danger |
Arnold Friend’s car serves as a multi-layered symbol throughout the short story, representing power, deception, cultural significance, transgression and a sense of unease. Ultimately, the car’s symbolism is a reflection of Arnold’s predatory nature and his ability to manipulate Connie into leaving with him, which ultimately results in a horrific ending.
Arnold Friend’s obsession with youth and beauty
Arnold Friend, the enigmatic antagonist in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”, is a highly symbolic character that represents some of the most perverted aspects of modern culture. Friend is a mysterious character whose intentions remain unclear until the very end of the story, but his obsession with youth and beauty is a recurring theme that is strongly suggested throughout the narrative.
- Friend’s eerily perfect looks – Friend’s most noticeable trait is his perfect and unblemished appearance. He is described as having “shaggy, shabby black hair that looked crazy as a wig” and “no face” – which implies, paradoxically, that his face is too perfect to be human. This description suggests that Friend is a “fallen angel,” or a demonic creature that has disguised itself as a human to deceive Connie, the protagonist. Friend’s preternatural beauty is one way in which he symbolizes society’s obsession with youth and perfection.
- The way Friend talks – Friend’s speech patterns are highly stylized and artificial, suggesting that he, too, is a product of our media-saturated culture. He speaks in a seductive, almost hypnotic way, using phrases like “go skinny-dipping” and “hot-rod” to appeal to Connie’s libido. Moreover, his language is peppered with pop-culture references that betray his artificiality and his preoccupation with youth culture.
- The way Friend presents himself – Friend shows up at Connie’s house wearing a “shirt pulled down tightly over his jeans,” which accentuates his “fiendish” good looks. Moreover, he is driving a convertible which is “painted a bright gold that caught the sunlight” and plays rock-and-roll music at an ear-splitting volume. This image of Friend as a flashy, sexually charged figure is a reflection of our culture’s obsession with sex and youth as commodities.
However, the most disturbing aspect of Friend’s obsession with youth and beauty is the way in which it leads him to manipulate and exploit young women like Connie. His seductive language, his perfect appearance, and his flashy car are all tools that he uses to lure young, vulnerable girls like Connie into his grasp. By tapping into the deep-seated desires and fears that define adolescent sexuality, Friend is able to exert a powerful influence over his victims, leading them to an inevitable doom.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Friend’s appearance | Perfection, artificiality, sexual appeal |
| Friend’s language | Seduction, manipulation, artificiality |
| Friend’s car | Seduction, power, sex |
Arnold Friend’s obsession with youth and beauty is a deeply troubling aspect of his character, one that serves as a metaphor for the way in which our culture exploits the hopes and fears of youth for its own ends. By showing how Friend uses his preternatural appeal to lure young women like Connie into his grasp, Joyce Carol Oates reveals the darker side of American society, where youth and beauty are seen as commodities to be bought, sold, and manipulated.
The role of Arnold Friend’s accomplice, Ellie, in the story
While Arnold Friend is the primary antagonist in Joyce Carol Oates’ “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”, his accomplice, Ellie, plays a significant role in the story. Here are some ways Ellie contributes to the narrative:
- Ellie serves as Arnold’s “wingman”: Ellie’s main purpose in the story is to help Arnold lure Connie into his car. Arnold is the one who does most of the talking, but Ellie supports him by offering to take Connie’s friend, and later playing with Arnold’s keys to make them seem “magical.”
- Ellie adds to Arnold’s threatening presence: While Arnold is certainly scary on his own, having Ellie with him makes him even more intimidating. She is described as wearing a dress “like the purest nylon” and “girlish white sandals,” which contrasts with Arnold’s leather boots and dark clothing. This contrast makes Arnold seem even more sinister by comparison, and reinforces the idea that Connie is in danger.
- Ellie’s presence adds to the story’s ambiguity: Like many aspects of the story, Ellie’s role is somewhat ambiguous. It’s not entirely clear who he is or what his motivations are. Is he Arnold’s brother? His lover? His victim? Whatever the case, Ellie’s mysterious presence adds an extra layer of unease to the already tense situation.
All in all, while Arnold Friend is the main villain of “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?”, Ellie is a crucial element of the story’s suspenseful and unsettling tone.
Arnold Friend’s Use of Language and Rhetoric
The antagonist in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is Arnold Friend. He is described as a symbolic manifestation of the devil. Arnold Friend has a way of controlling and manipulating his victim, Connie, through his language and rhetoric.
- 1. Deceptive Charm: Arnold Friend is described as having a “charm” that wins over his victims, especially females. He uses persuasive language to lure them into his manipulation.
- 2. Dual Meanings: Arnold Friend has a tendency to use double entendres, which is a figure of speech where words have two possible meanings. This serves his purpose of convincing Connie to come with him, while at same time creating confusion and uncertainty.
- 3. Distorted Reality: Arnold Friend’s language creates a feeling of a distorted reality, where what he says doesn’t match with what is happening in that moment. He presents himself as all knowing and powerful figure, thereby influencing Connie’s decisions.
Arnold Friend’s use of language leads to his rhetoric, which is his art of using language to persuade. He combines his use of language with his understanding of Connie to gain power over her.
One of the most interesting examples of Arnold Friend’s power is his obsession with the number “eight.” He appears to be in control of many elements of the environment as and when there are eight of them.
| Occurrences of 8 | Arnold’s Influence |
|---|---|
| His car has the numbers “3” and “5” written on it, which totals up to “8” | He uses the car as a tool to haunt Connie. |
| Arnold Friend has “eight” lines written for him in the story | His character has an eight-lined persona and appears as an idol to young women. |
| Arnold Friend is present during the “eighth” hour of Connie’s day | He has a significant impact on Connie’s decision-making during that time. |
The number “eight” is symbolic of infinity and has strong religious connotations. It represents the eternal and undying, which is why it is a significant motif in Arthurian legends and Nordic mythology.
Arnold Friend’s obsession with “eight” could be symbolic of his demonic nature. He is a force that is never-ending, chasing his victims from one life to another, making him something that is both infinite and beyond mortal laws. The use of the number “eight” helps add to the suspense and terror that the readers feel while reading the story.
The meaning of the numbers on Arnold Friend’s car
The number 9
Throughout the story, Arnold Friend’s car is prominently featured and the numbers on the car are a key symbol in the story. The number 9 is one of the numbers on the car and it is significant in a number of ways.
Firstly, the number 9 is considered to be a powerful and mystical number in many cultures. In numerology, 9 is associated with completion and represents the end of a cycle. It also symbolizes wisdom, empathy, and spirituality. This may suggest that Arnold Friend sees himself as someone who has attained a higher level of understanding or knowledge.
Furthermore, the number 9 could also represent the age of his victims. Connie, the main character, is 15 years old and may be represented by the number 1 (5+1=6, then 6-1=5), while the number 9 represents the end of her childhood. Arnold Friend’s interest in younger girls is a central theme in the story, so this interpretation seems likely.
| Meaning of Number 9 | |
|---|---|
| Completion of a cycle | 🔚 |
| Wisdom and spirituality | 🙏 |
| Mystical and powerful | 🧙♂️ |
| End of childhood | 👶🔜👧 |
In conclusion, the number 9 on Arnold Friend’s car represents completion, wisdom, and spirituality, as well as the end of childhood. It may also suggest that Arnold is interested in younger girls and sees them as incomplete, inexperienced, and in need of his guidance.
Arnold Friend’s role as the antagonist in the story
In Joyce Carol Oates’ “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” Arnold Friend is undoubtedly the antagonist, a sinister character who embodies evil and represents danger for our protagonist, Connie.
Arnold’s most significant role as an antagonist is to create conflict and tension in the story. Right from the beginning, his presence feels ominous, and he seems to have no legitimate reason for approaching Connie. He is persuasive and manipulative, using a charming demeanor to coax Connie into leaving her house and coming with him.
- Arnold Friend is a symbol of temptation and sin. Through his words and actions, he symbolizes the dangers of the outside world and the potential harm that lurks behind every corner.
- Arnold represents the darker side of society and, more specifically, the male experience. He is a predator, stalking women and preying on their vulnerability.
- Arnold Friend is also a symbolic representation of the devil, and his name certainly has an ironic quality- he is as far from a friend as one can get. His physical appearance is sinister and unsettling, with pointed teeth and boots that make a distinctly “devilish” sound.
Arnold’s role as an antagonist is so effective because he is both threatening and ambiguous. We never know exactly what he wants from Connie, or what he plans to do to her. His actions and words are always suggestive, and we are left to imagine the worst. The resulting tension is what gives the story its power and makes Arnold Friend one of the most memorable antagonists in modern fiction.
| Arnold Friend as the Antagonist | Impact on the Story |
|---|---|
| Arnold creates tension and conflict in the story. | This tension propels the narrative forward and keeps the reader engaged. |
| Arnold symbolizes temptation and sin. | This symbol helps to develop the story’s themes and adds depth to the characters’ experiences. |
| Arnold is a representation of the devil. | This symbolism adds an element of danger and helps to create a more ominous tone throughout the story. |
In conclusion, Arnold Friend is a perfect example of how a well-crafted antagonist can elevate a story and add depth to its themes. His presence in “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is felt from the beginning, and his impact on Connie’s life is undeniable. Joyce Carol Oates masterfully created a character that is both threatening and symbolic, leaving a lasting impression on readers long after the story has ended.
FAQs about What Does Arnold Friend Symbolize
1. Who is Arnold Friend and why is he important?
Arnold Friend is a character in Joyce Carol Oates’ short story “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” He is an enigmatic figure who represents evil and temptation.
2. What does Arnold Friend symbolize?
Arnold Friend symbolizes evil, temptation, and the darkness that lies within human nature.
3. What is the significance of Arnold Friend’s appearance?
Arnold Friend’s appearance is significant because it is both seductive and unnerving. His physical attributes, such as his persuasive manner and his aura of danger, represents his power over Connie.
4. What is Arnold Friend’s role in the story?
Arnold Friend’s role is to represent the danger and threat to the protagonist Connie, and to symbolize the larger societal issues such as the loss of innocence in American youth.
5. What is the meaning of Arnold Friend’s car?
Arnold Friend’s car, adorned with magical symbols and signage, is the representation of the devil’s chariot in which Connie is lured away from her previous innocence.
6. What is the importance of the story’s ending with Arnold Friend’s actions?
The story’s ending with Arnold Friend’s actions bookends the narrative with disturbing imagery, leaving the reader thinking about the negative effects of temptation and draws attention to the fragility of life and the dangers of the world.
7. How does Arnold Friend’s character make this story disturbing?
Arnold Friend’s character makes this story disturbing by representing the darker side of humanity. He is a symbol of the inevitability of evil and violence in society, with his suave demeanour hiding the true horror that is to come.
Closing Thoughts on What Does Arnold Friend Symbolize
Arnold Friend is one of the most memorable and disturbing characters in modern literature. He represents the evil and temptation that lurks within society and serves as a cautionary tale for readers. The story leaves us with a deep impression of the dark side of human nature and the dangers of temptation, both in youthful innocence and human nature as a whole. We hope that this article has given you some insight into what Arnold Friend symbolizes and that you’ll join us again soon for more thought-provoking articles. Thanks for reading!