In Joseph P. Blank's short story, "Face to Face with Hurricane Camille," the characters are vividly portrayed, showcasing a range of personalities and qualities that drive their actions amidst the devastating storm. Below is an analysis of the main characters and their characteristics: ### 1. John Koshak, Jr. **Character Image**: John Koshak emerges as a resilient and pragmatic individual. Despite being aware of the imminent danger posed by Hurricane Camille, he hesitates to evacuate his family initially, partly due to his attachment to his home and his business situated there. His business as a toy designer and manufacturer highlights his creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. **Character Traits**: - **Pragmatism**: John assesses the situation based on past experiences (such as Hurricane Betsy) and logical reasoning. He reasons that their house, being 23 feet above sea level and 250 yards from the ocean, might be relatively safe. - **Determination**: His resolve to protect his family and home is evident throughout the story, even as the storm rages on. - **Responsibility**: He shoulders the burden of decision-making for his family, consulting with his parents and friend Charles Hill. ### 2. Pop Koshak (John's Father) **Character Image**: Pop Koshak is depicted as a seasoned, no-nonsense expert machinist who migrated from California to join his son's family. Despite his advanced age (67), he exhibits remarkable grit and resourcefulness. **Character Traits**: - **Experience and Wisdom**: Pop's expertise and experience allow him to make practical suggestions, such as preparing for the storm by securing the house and gathering essentials. - **Courage**: He encourages his son to "batten down and ride it out," showcasing his bravery and resolve. - **Positivity**: Even in the face of adversity, he maintains a forward-looking attitude, as seen in his statement after the storm: "Let's not cry about what's gone. We'll just start all over." ### 3. Charles Hill **Character Image**: Charles Hill, a long-time friend of John's, is portrayed as a reliable and selfless companion. He travels from Las Vegas to be with John during the hurricane, offering support and assistance. **Character Traits**: - **Loyalty**: His willingness to travel during a dangerous time to be with his friend underscores his loyalty and commitment. - **Bravery**: He fearlessly faces the storm alongside John, even attempting to hold the door shut when it's blown off its hinges. - **Selflessness**: Charles goes beyond helping John's family; he also takes responsibility for the safety of his neighbors, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to those around him. ### 4. Janis Koshak (John's Wife) **Character Image**: Although her character is less prominent in the narrative, Janis is shown to be a loving and supportive wife who experiences immense psychological stress during the hurricane. **Character Traits**: - **Loyalty and Devotion**: She stands by her husband's side through thick and thin, facing the storm alongside the rest of the family. - **Resilience**: Her late display of exhaustion and the psychological toll the storm takes on her illustrate her resilience and capacity to endure under extreme conditions. ### Conclusion Through these characters, Joseph P. Blank presents a tapestry of human resilience, courage, loyalty, and determination in the face of natural disaster. Each character contributes uniquely to the narrative, painting a vivid picture of how people come together to survive and rebuild amidst the wreckage of Hurricane Camille.
