Tomorrow when the war began

Homer

In the novel “Tomorrow when the war began” a group of 7 teenagers go on a camping tour in a remote part of Australia. When they return, they find their homes abandoned and the power cut off. They discover that a war has broken out and that they are among the very few people who have escaped from being imprisoned. From now on, all their efforts are concentrated on not being captured and on surviving. This extreme situation leads them to develop character traits they haven’t shown before. Especially Homer reveals himself as completely different to the boy he was before developing from a childish prankster into a mature and responsible leader.

17 year-old Homer is Ellie’s next-door neighbour and closest childhood friend. His parents are Greek farmers and he helps them a lot on the farm. At school, Homer is a very naughty student who loves playing pranks on teachers and other people. His childish and immature behaviour often annoys his classmates, especially the girls. Ellie describes him like that:

“Homer was wild, outrageous. He didn’t care what he did or what anyone thought” (p. 15)

However, when the war begins and the group has to face the destruction of their homes and former lives Homer reveals himself as a strong and supportive leader. The first step in the development in Homer’s character is recognisable when he confesses to Ellie about his love to FI. Instead of being the usual self-confident and immature boy he seems rather shy and sensitive and doesn’t know who to treat Fi.

Later on in the book, when they are in midst of the war, Homer plans all the actions. He is always one step ahead of the others and keeps the situation controlled. He thinks of great ideas like to split up when going to the Showground and convinces his friends through his intelligence and courage. He also supports his friends when they need help. He finds for example comforting words to cheer Ellie up when she is deeply shocked after blowing up the lawn mower and killing three people. Ellie demonstrates her admiration for Homer’s brightness and her surprise about the big changes in his personality by saying: “It was getting hard to remember that this fast-thinking guy […] wasn't even trusted to hand out the books at school.” (p.104)

From start to finish in the novel Homer grows into a trusted, responsible leader who is very mature and quick thinking. The huge changes in his character are due to the fact that people often develop strong (leadership) qualities when they are in a very challenging situation and have to cope with extremely difficult circumstances..

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