Character and Setting Archetypes

Ed can be classified in many archetypes. The main character is definitely an innocent. He hasn't really experienced the world and doesn't see the big picture yet. He has to deal with hardships like his job and being lonely. The person sending Ed the cards is helping him to find himself. Ed could be classified as an orphan, as well, because his dad isn't around, and he doesn't live with his Mom. He is forced to make his own way in life. Ed is also a Seeker because he could have just ignored the cards, but he chooses to help these people. He is trying to find out who is sending the cards to him. There is an age gap between Ed and Millie, the woman that he cares for; he is 19 and she is 82. I would also say that Ed is a caregiver. Ed has helped all of these people find happiness and not worried about himself. In the end, Ed can he seen as a hero for saving all of these people and giving them hope.

Ed friends are dare I say his friends! The Doorman is the sage in Ed's mind. He gives Ed wisdom that he has been looking for. At the end of this book, Audrey becomes Ed's lover. She finally gives into her feelings. Ed's mother is a wicked stepmother type. She is always mean to Ed, but treats her other children with love and affection.

This story is set in a city that is controlled, but Ed lives in a little shack with his dog outside of town. He is in the wilderness and that could be viewed as evil or as the freedom to do as you wish. His home is somewhat like a cave, he feels safe there. By Ed's house, there is a river that is out in the wild. It is a no man's land, and that is where Ed finds some of his clues. The river is also a place of rebirth for the character Ritchie. When Ed helps him, Ritchie goes and stands in the freezing river at night. After that, he changes and decides that he wants to truly live.