Introduction
Friendship blooms in the most unlikely of places. This is ever apparent in Paul Zindel's novel The Pigman, in which two disparate high schoolers, Lorraine and John, form an unexpected bond with a lonely older man, Mr. Pignati. Their quirky and touching friendship challenges social norms and illuminates the true nature of human connection. In just over 200 pages, Zindel explores the possibilities of friendship across generations and life experience. This essay will examine the significance of unlikely friendships in The Pigman. It will analyze how the central bond between Lorraine, John and Mr. Pignati defies expectations and enriches their lives. Their profound relationship demonstrates the rewards of opening one's mind to unexpected friendships.
The Historical and Psychological Significance of Unlikely Friendships
The phenomenon of unlikely friendships has existed throughout human history. However, social norms often dictate who one is "supposed" to befriend based on factors like age, status, and interests. It was not until the 20th century that psychologists began studying unlikely friendships and recognizing their value in terms of personal growth, empathy, and fulfillment. Research has shown that people in unlikely friendships often experience decreased loneliness and prejudice, while increasing their understanding of diverse perspectives.
In literature, unlikely friendships have played key roles in stories for centuries. Mark Twain's Huckleberry Finn illustrated a deep bond between a young white boy and a runaway slave. John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men portrayed the connection between two men living drastically different realities. Paul Zindel continued this literary tradition in 1968 with The Pigman. The book broke new ground with its frank depiction of friendship between two disconnected teens and a lonely older man. Their relationship challenges societal norms, revealing life-changing potential.
A Unlikely Pairing: Lorraine and John
In The Pigman, Lorraine and John seem an unlikely pair from the start. Though they are classmates, John is a defiant prankster while Lorraine is a detached loner. They have no reason to interact until the day they call Mr. Pignati and pretend to be charity collectors. This rebellious prank sparks their first conversation and plants the seeds of friendship. Soon after, when they learn that Mr. Pignati is truly alone in the world, Lorraine is filled with pity while John feels empathy from losing his own mother. Despite their differences, the teens are drawn back to Mr. Pignati's company again and again. As they get to know him, their own worldviews begin to transform. According to literary analyst David Berry, "Though completely different in upbringing, outlook, and temperament, through their unlikely friendship with Mr. Pignati Lorraine and John discover within themselves generosity, compassion and responsibility towards others." This reveals how opening oneself up to unexpected friendships can lead to personal growth.
Mutual Impact: Changing Each Other
As their bond deepens, Lorraine and John begin to change each other as well. At first judgmental of John's pranking, Lorraine starts to admire his boldness and sense of fun. Meanwhile, John's carefree attitude begins to crack as he witnesses Lorraine's strength during her mother's illness. According to Berry, their friendship "teaches them about the legitimacy of different approaches to life." Despite their opposing personalities, Lorraine and John come to appreciate the value in each other's perspectives. Through befriending Mr. Pignati, they also gain more empathy for the elderly. As John remarks, "I don't think I'll ever be able to look at an old guy again without wondering if he needs someone to talk to." The young protagonists discover that unlikely friends can profoundly expand one's worldview.
Inappropriateness of the Age and Circumstance Differences
Some argue that Lorraine and John's friendship with Mr. Pignati is inappropriate because of their differences in age and circumstances. However, Zindel portrays their bond as entirely sincere and platonic. Mr. Pignati acts as a sympathetic ear and a source of wisdom for the teens, providing them with nonjudgmental company. The three characters balance out each others' strengths and weaknesses, such as when Lorraine and John rally to comfort Mr. Pignati after the death of his beloved pet pig. Rather than any sinister motive, it is a mutual desire for connection and empathy that draws them together. While unlikely, their friendship is grounded in genuinely shared interests and care for one another.
Conclusion
Paul Zindel's poignant novel reminds us that friendships can flourish even in the most unlikely of places. The unique bond between two very different teens and one lonely older man defies society's narrow expectations. Their relationship illustrates how opening oneself up to unexpected connections can lead to transformative personal growth, empathy, and fulfillment. The Pigman suggests that the most unlikely friendships may be the most special of all. When given the chance, such bonds can change our perspectives and deepen our lives in incredible ways.
