In literature, authors often attempt to create meaning by forcing characters to undergo some form of moral reconciliation or spiritual reevaluation. In the case of the Dubliners, James Joyce created a series of stories centered on a central epiphany, that of paralysis within a cycle of frustration and disillusionment. The word epiphany is important because it suggests a divine manifestation of some sort. The characters in Joyce's stories are far from being spiritual creatures, and by exposing the unostentatious and even unpleasant moments of their lives, Joyce brings the reader to sudden realizations regarding the universal problems of society. In the story "Counterparts" the main character Farrington is a tall, vulgar man. He's stuck in a monotonous job as a copyist at a law firm, and it soon becomes apparent that he's a raging alcoholic who only cares about his job because it provides him with money to get drunk. “Counterparts” tells the story of how Farrington realizes that he is trapped in an unfulfilling existence, paralyzed by his own alcoholism and ignorance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essay The main institution of paralysis in Farrington's case is the law firm at which he works. Obviously he feels absolutely trapped in this bureaucracy, having to answer to Mr. Alleyne, Mr. Shelley and Mr. Crosbie. It is easy to understand why he dislikes Mr. Alleyne in particular, for being "tall and of great build", Farrington respects strength, manliness, and athleticism. It totally frustrates Farrington to be in a subordinate position to a bald "little man" who wears "gold-rimmed glasses". Taking this into account, it is easy to understand why Farrington insults Mr. Alleyne later in the story, as he feels he needs to assert his perceived superiority. However, this victory is meaningless because he is forced to humiliate himself and apologize if he wants to keep his position. This is the first of Farrington's era of emasculating incidents, all of which stem from his need to assert his masculinity and strength and are linked to his alcoholism. In many Dubliners stories, the characters seek to escape the unpleasantness and boredom of their daily lives. In Farrington's case, alcohol and the "comforts of the pub" provide escape in the form of drunkenness and a noisy party atmosphere. When he feels angry or passionate, the feeling of "thirst" (an innocent word that belies the miserable nature of alcoholism) becomes stronger and he feels he must quench it immediately. The reader is first alerted to Farrington's addiction to alcohol after he goes for a beer after being reprimanded by Mr. Alleyne. Upon his return, the dialogue with the clerk reveals that this is not his first. In fact, he played the same charade of sneaking out "five times in one day." Obviously, alcohol addiction is going to lead to Farrington's downfall, and this is evident when he fails to finish his paper at the end of the day and is almost fired when alcohol quits. 'he has drunk so loosens his tongue that he does not do it. consider the consequences of insulting Mr. Alleyne. Despite being forced to apologize, Farrington still feels he has the right to brag about his initial "triumph." Short of money, he is reduced to pawning his watch to have a good time. However, the rowdy evening he imagines does not conform to the true course of events. At first he is happy because he has money in his pocket and all his friends congratulate him and offer him a drink,.