Malamud�s The Assistant: Frank Alpine's Metamorphosis From Bad To Good

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mean I�ve been trough a lot. I�ve been close to some wonderful things��but close is as far as I go�.sooner or later everything I think is worth having gets away from me in some way or other.� (P39-40) Frank does not have any clear justification for his actions. However, his defense is that after such a rough childhood, what else can be expected of him, other than evil. Frank does not comprehend why he does what he does. He has no rational explanation of why he shatters everything he works so hard to gain. Maybe Frank was just born evil.
Although Frank has done wrong, he tries to redeem himself by working for Morris Bober for free, to show his gratitude. However, Frank proves to not be a man of his word. Frank claims that he wants to repay Morris for his kindness. He pleads for the Bober family to allow him to remain at the store as a trainee. He even avers �I know I am a stranger but I am an honest guy. Whoever keeps an eye on me will find that out in no time.� (P46) As we ...

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her further away, rather than closer to him. Frank�s impatience and need for that instant gratification took over, it was stronger that his conscience. And yes, inevitably Frank once again set himself back with his stupid, rash actions.
Though Frank did not demonstrate any change for the better because he was still stealing from Morris, he was given another chance. Even after Ida took every opportunity to admonish Helen about Frank, Helen could no longer deny her feelings. Helen could not resist her growing love for Frank. �Helen felt herself, despite the strongest doubts, falling in love with Frank.� (P157) Their love began to blossom, they were meant for each other. Frank made ...

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