Some of Us Had Been Threatening Our Friend Colby

Colby, the target of the group’s unsettling plan, is a flat character characterized primarily by his impending predicament. His presence is felt throughout the narrative, but his voice and personal attributes remain largely undefined. Despite this, Colby plays a critical role in the narrative. His forthcoming execution serves as the catalyst for the group’s logistical discussions and planning.

While Colby does not undergo a transformation in the narrative due to the limited exposure to his character, his fate evokes a contemplation of his possible feelings and reactions. Despite half-hearted protests, such as a suggestion that his hanging may be “a little Draconian” (Paragraph 5), he largely goes along with the group consensus, demonstrating Conformity and Groupthink even in the face of death. The lack of focus on Colby’s perspective underscores the group’s dehumanization of him, aligning with the story’s critique of society’s capacity for dehumanizing individuals for perceived transgressions.

Victor, another group member, is a static character defined by his role in the execution planning. His concern that an unpainted gibbet might “look kind of ‘raw’” highlights the group’s fixation on the trivial aspects of the execution (Paragraph 3), contrasting starkly with the event’s gravity. Victor’s contribution to the narrative emphasizes The Absurdity and Banality of Violence theme, showing how individuals can focus on mundane details even when involved in horrifying acts.

Victor does not change or evolve throughout the story. Instead, he reinforces the norm of the group and its skewed priorities. His character illustrates how collective decision-making can lead to harmful outcomes, especially when the group is detached from the ethical implications of its decisions.

Howard stands as a secondary character who is characterized primarily through his dialogue. Of all the members of the group, he is the character least willing to accommodate Colby’s wishes. As a conductor, he quibbles over Colby’s choice of music, suggesting it is a “delaying tactic.” He also rules out the suggestion of a firing squad, asserting that “it would just be an ego trip for Colby” (5). Howard’s antipathy and impatience toward Colby suggests that he may be the leader of the group, instrumental in initiating the groupthink. Howard’s character does not undergo a significant transformation throughout the narrative; instead, he remains steadfast in his beliefs, contributing to the story’s dark, absurd humor.