Francis Weed and Zoe Hendricks: Dealing with Emptiness

The word emptiness can be defined as: lacking purpose or substance; meaningless. When faced with this void, one may react in many different ways to fulfill it. Fantasy, denial, and substance abuse are just some of the responses to this feeling. However, these reactions still fail to deal with the problem at hand. Francis Weed and Zoe Hendricks are both dealing with fears related this feeling. These two characters epitomize the word emptiness, and both manage these emotions in different ways. They seem to not be living life to fullest, handicapped by their own internal problems. Leading them to both express this suppression differently. By analyzing them together, the key to their happiness may finally be found.

Upon a near-death experience, Francis Weed discovers a new perspective on life. While he necessarily didn’t see the “light at the end of the tunnel”, the experience changed him. Before he had been living a prototypical suburban life. However, the superficial society that is “Shady Hill” is now fueling his emptiness. His wife Julia would rather gossip about the latest social gathering, rather than concern over his feelings. These things combine to form a melting pot for Francis, leading him to act in ways he never has before.

On the other hand, Zoe Hendricks is just an average Mid-West history professor. As the case with most history buffs, she is a sociably awkward woman. Zoe seems to be fueled by sarcasm, although she believes its just irony. This misconception makes her a tough match for possible mates. Her unsuccessful attempts at courtship shine light into her social problems. She appears to be just living life on cruise control, nonchalantly caring for future. Whereas her younger sister is on the verge of marriag...

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...s from these stories depict a problem that resonates in current times. Many people can relate to the emptiness that both, Zoe and Francis endure, from not fulfilling their true happiness. The “Pursuit of Happiness” is something that every human chases. By repressing this search, it fuels the flames that swallow both of these characters. It may serve best if Zoe were to face a near-death experience. This could lead her to finally change her mindset on life; providing her with the insight she needs to alter her life for the better. It might be the thing that sets off her evolution as a human, releasing her from the internal shackles bounding her. Maybe then she can free herself from the sprawl of life; providing her with the strength one needs to discover true happiness.

“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.”- Albert Einstien