A River Runs Through It Analysis

A River Runs Through It by Norman Maclean is about the bond between brothers, and more generally the bond between family. It showcases many events that support the idea of this bond. The story allows for many different themes to be conveyed. The main theme of the story however, is the idea that family is everything; it can be supported by the way Norman tries to help Paul, by the way Jessie blames Norman for her brother, and by the way Norman goes along with Paul. The most solid event that supports the theme is the fact that all through his life, Norman tries to help Paul. Norman offers to give Paul money when he hears that he’s in deep debt. The fact that Norman is willing to sacrifice his hard earned cash to help out with his brother’s problems definitely shows that he thinks family is everything. Once again Norman comes to the aid of Paul when he tries to stop Paul from going back to the poker game. Norman knows that Paul is in huge amounts of debt, and he doesn’t want his brother to assume any more. Norman knows
First, when Paul has the wonderful idea to boat through the rapids, none of the other members of the gang want to go. But Norman goes along with Paul, despite the physical dangers. Norman knew that he could be killed or injured, but he went along anyways. He knew Paul would probably go solo and die for sure. He sucked up his fear and went along. Showing that he’ll do anything for family. The story, A River Runs Through It, has several events that support its main theme of family is everything. From the countless times Norman has to help Paul, or go along with Paul. To the way Jessie and her mother immediately come to the defense of Neal despite knowing whatever happened was probably his fault. A River Runs Through It fills all who experience the story with feelings of familial bonds and fellowship amongst