Initial Characterization:
* Naïve and Insecure: Nick is a 17-year-old boy living a sheltered life in England. He is shy, lacking confidence, and easily influenced by others. He is also naive about the world and its complexities.
* Yearning for Adventure: Nick longs for excitement and adventure, something he feels missing in his everyday life. He idolizes explorers and fantasizes about escaping his mundane existence.
* Driven by Fear: Nick is plagued by fear, particularly fear of his father's disapproval. This fear often drives his actions, hindering his ability to make independent choices.
Transformation:
* Gaining Confidence: Nick's journey through Burma, facing challenges and overcoming obstacles, gradually boosts his self-esteem. He learns to rely on his own skills and resourcefulness, becoming more confident and decisive.
* Developing Maturity: Experiencing hardships and responsibility in the jungle forces Nick to mature. He learns to be more independent, resourceful, and responsible for his actions. He also develops empathy and compassion for others.
* Overcoming Fear: Nick confronts his fear head-on, particularly his fear of his father. He learns to stand up for himself and make his own choices, even if they are unpopular. He also faces the dangers of the jungle without succumbing to panic.
* Finding his Passion: Nick's journey awakens his passion for exploration and adventure. He discovers a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the wild, realizing that true adventure is not just about escaping his current life but about embracing challenges and discovering the world.
Final Characterization:
* Strong and Independent: Nick emerges from his journey a more confident and independent young man. He has overcome his fears and developed a strong sense of self.
* Compassionate and Empathetic: Nick's experiences with the people he encounters in Burma, particularly the Burmese people who help him, foster his empathy and compassion for others.
* Passionate Explorer: Nick's journey inspires in him a love for exploration and adventure. He embraces this passion, realizing that he can make a meaningful impact by using his skills and experiences to explore and understand the world.
In short, Nick's journey in "Elephant Run" is a coming-of-age story. He transforms from a naive and fearful boy into a confident, mature, and passionate young man who finds his true purpose in the world. He learns to overcome his fears, embrace challenges, and find fulfillment in exploring the world around him.