Internal Conflicts:
* The Conflict of the Boy (Harry): Harry struggles with his own internal conflicts. He's a sensitive and imaginative boy, yearning for freedom and adventure, but also afraid of the unknown. He's haunted by the loss of his family and wrestles with feelings of loneliness and insecurity.
* The Conflict of the Horse (The Grey): The Grey is a wild horse, living a life of freedom but constantly threatened by danger. He feels the conflict between his instincts for survival and his desire for connection and trust.
External Conflicts:
* Man vs. Nature: Both Harry and The Grey are constantly facing the challenges of the natural world. They must learn to survive in the wild, dealing with harsh weather, predators, and hunger.
* Man vs. Man: This conflict is more subtle, but it's present in the way Harry is treated by the adults in his life, particularly those who are trying to control him or limit his freedom. There's also a hint of conflict between those who appreciate and respect the wildness of nature (Harry and the Grey) and those who seek to tame it (the people who attempt to capture The Grey).
* The Conflict of Finding Belonging: Both Harry and the Grey are looking for a sense of belonging. Harry yearns for a family and a place to call home, while The Grey seeks a herd and a connection with another creature.
Themes:
These conflicts help to develop important themes in the story:
* The Importance of Freedom: Both Harry and the Grey are seeking freedom from limitations and the ability to live authentically.
* The Value of Nature: The book celebrates the wildness and beauty of nature, and its ability to provide healing and connection.
* The Power of Imagination: Harry's imagination helps him cope with his struggles and find joy in his solitary life.
* The Importance of Connection: Both Harry and the Grey discover the power of connection with others, even if it's just a brief encounter.
By weaving together these different conflicts and themes, "Running Loose" creates a deeply moving and thought-provoking story that explores the complexities of human and animal relationships with nature and with each other.