distinction of comedic style used in First Confession
"First Confession" by Frank OConnor, also known as Michael ODonovan born on Douglas Street, Cork, in 1903. ... A story about the acute fears of a young boy who has to make his first confession and communion, reflecting on his fears while ultimately conquering them.This story depicts OConnors use of comedic style through the innocence and naivety of a young boy to face and overcome his fears. In using humor to illustrate anxiety at coming of age, first confession, OConner draws reality and belief to life in this story. Jackie, the main character in Frank O’Connor’s short story “First Confession”, places the blame for all his misfortune on his grandmother who has come to stay with his family. ... " The function of comedic tone turns a violent scene, remembering this is a child, into a comical one. ... Seen again in this line; "She may have mentioned the other place as well, but that could only have been by accident, for hell had the first place in her heart. ... " (361) Jackie is precise in his thinking, seen in reflections on his conscience after Mrs Ryan informs his class that they will all have their first confession. She relates a story meant to scare the children into giving a good confession, which has the oppisite affect on Jackie. This story, along with the contemplation of his first confession makes Jackie realize once more that his grandmother is to blame for all his sins. ... "(362) Jackies building trepidition of his first confession not lessoned by Noras constant torment evokes a vision of a man being slowly dragged towards his death to the gallows. ... "(362) Jackie watches with disbelief and malace as Nora takes her turn at confession and watching her act like the perfect angel, is even more confused about religon. ... "(362) It is Jackies turn now for confession, musterying all his courage, he steps into the confessional and closes the door.