Theme Of Poverty In Markus Zusak's The Messenger

The concept of poverty has plagued society as the popularity of capitalism and social stratification inhibit the underlying issues that are deemed insignificant to powerful members of higher classes. Although this problem can be solved, many are apathetic and prefer to continue their selfish ways of life. Markus Zusak’s 2002 post-modernist novel, The Messenger, follows the life of Ed Kennedy, a young and directionless plebeian who, under the demands of a literary manifestation of the author, ventures forth to commit acts of altruism for other members of his low socioeconomic community, as others have failed to do them same. The Messenger utilises narrative conventions to explore the idea of poverty in the world by representing those in lower …show more content…
This is shown through the complacent mentality induced by a low socioeconomic background. In order to complete a mission, Ed must endure a beating from the Rose boys and their gang. Even though Ed receives substantial injuries, the characterisation of his friends shows that they will choose to ignore his plight and move on with their lives, instead of suggesting methods to serve justice or alleviate his suffering. Ed realises this common mentality amongst his friends and comments “I find it curious that no one’s even suggested that I should have called the police about what happened. You don’t do that sort of thing around here. People get mugged or beaten up all the time, and in most cases you either get back straight away or take it.” The characterisation of Ed’s peers suggest that they have grown up to follow an underlying social taboo, where if assaulted, one should ignore it instead of informing the police, indirectly implying that the police are unable to sufficiently uphold the law in their community. The frequent crimes in Ed’s town support the failings of the justice system. The taboo and the frequent occurrence of petty criminal activity are likely to have induced a complacent attitude towards problems, particularly those of violence, in the community. This complacent attitude in the community is further supported through Marv’s dialogue after he visits Ed to ensure his decision to play in his annual football game. After seeing Ed’s brutalised state, he shakes his head and says “Christ, the world’s going crazy” and immediately asks Ed if he can play in his football game. The fact that one of Ed’s best friends, someone who should show genuine concern, fails to do so coupled with his comment on the world shows that he sees Ed’s beating as an uncontrollable act of nature. Instead of suggesting methods to extinguish the horrors that lurk their