Will Do Dead Things For Money: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Novel by Alexi Zentner

Alexi Zentner's Will Do Dead Things For Money is a haunting literary masterpiece that has captivated readers and critics alike since its release in 2015. Set against the backdrop of poverty and violence in a remote Canadian town, the novel delves into the darkest recesses of the human soul, exploring themes of despair, redemption, and moral ambiguity. Through its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters, Will Do Dead Things For Money leaves an enduring impact, challenging our perceptions of right and wrong, love and hate, and the complexities of human nature.

Will Do Dead Things For Money

by Jimmy Moncrief

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	98 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	13 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Plot Summary

The novel centers around a young man named Wade, who is trapped in a cycle of poverty and despair in the isolated town of Vermillion, Alberta. After his father's death, Wade is left to fend for himself and his younger brother, Luke. Desperate for money, Wade agrees to do dead things for money - collecting and disposing of bodies for a local crime boss. As Wade becomes increasingly entangled in the underworld, he struggles to maintain his sanity and morality amidst the violence and corruption that surround him.

Character Analysis

Wade is a deeply flawed but relatable protagonist. He is driven by love for his brother and a desire to escape poverty, but his desperation leads him down a dangerous path. Throughout the novel, Wade grapples with his own demons, including addiction, violence, and self-destructive tendencies. Despite his flaws, Wade remains a sympathetic figure, as his actions are ultimately motivated by a desire for redemption and a better life for himself and his brother.

Luke is Wade's younger brother and the only person who truly understands him. Luke is innocent and vulnerable, and Wade is determined to protect him from the harsh realities of their world. Luke's unwavering loyalty and love for Wade serve as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness that surrounds them.

Magic is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who appears to Wade throughout the novel. Magic is both a mentor and a tormentor, guiding Wade on his journey while also testing the limits of his morality. Magic represents the darker aspects of Wade's own psyche, and his presence forces Wade to confront his inner demons.

Themes

Despair and Redemption: Will Do Dead Things For Money explores the depths of human despair and the possibility of redemption. Wade's journey is a harrowing tale of loss, grief, and violence, but it also holds out a glimmer of hope for redemption. Through his relationship with Luke and his own inner struggles, Wade grapples with the complexities of good and evil, ultimately revealing that even in the darkest of times, redemption is possible.

Poverty and Violence: The novel is set against a backdrop of poverty and violence, which play a significant role in shaping the characters and their actions. Vermillion is a town where desperation and hopelessness are rampant, and the cycle of poverty and violence seems unbreakable. Through Wade's experiences, Zentner exposes the systemic failures that can lead to violence and despair, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding.

Moral Ambiguity: Will Do Dead Things For Money challenges traditional notions of morality, blurring the lines between right and wrong. Wade's actions are often morally ambiguous, and the novel forces readers to question their own beliefs and assumptions. Zentner presents a complex and nuanced portrayal of human nature, suggesting that even the most heinous acts can stem from noble intentions.

Literary Style

Zentner's writing is lyrical and haunting, reflecting the dark and unsettling world of the novel. His prose is both sparse and poetic, creating a sense of immediacy and urgency. Zentner's use of sensory language and vivid imagery brings the world of Vermillion to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of this desolate town.

Critical Reception

Will Do Dead Things For Money has received widespread critical acclaim, with many critics praising Zentner's skillful storytelling and his unflinching portrayal of the human condition. The novel has been shortlisted for numerous awards, including the Scotiabank Giller Prize and the Governor General's Literary Award for Fiction.

Alexi Zentner's Will Do Dead Things For Money is a powerful and unforgettable novel that explores the darkest recesses of the human psyche. Through its haunting prose and unforgettable characters, the novel delves into themes of despair, redemption, and moral ambiguity, leaving an indelible mark on readers' souls. Will Do Dead Things For Money is a must-read for anyone interested in

Will Do Dead Things For Money

by Jimmy Moncrief

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	98 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	13 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE