Character: Paul

Paul serves as a secondary character in Janice Galloway’s novel, The Trick is to Keep Breathing.
He is Joy’s on-and-off boyfriend and a clear symbol of a destructive relationship in her life.
Paul lacks understanding and patience with Joy’s emotional state, highlighting one layer of Joy’s struggle and serving the theme of mental health.
Through Paul, Galloway explores the theme of toxic relationships and the lack of comprehension in society when dealing with mental health issues.

Paul’s main relationship in the novel is with Joy. Their dysfunctional bond underlines the negative impact an unhealthy, insensitive relationship can have on mental health.
Their constant breakups and reconciliations display the volatility and erratic nature of their relationship which mirror Joy’s inner turmoil.

Paul is initially presented as a negligent partner but gradually, the readers get a more in-depth understanding of his utter lack of empathy and genuine disregard for Joy’s mental health.
Unlike David, Paul is not idealised through Joy’s perspective, but his shortcomings are clearly presented, offering a harsh reality in contrast to the romanticised past with David.

Mental Health: Paul’s character is crucial in revealing societal ignorance and insensitivity towards mental health, as he often dismisses Joy’s suffering.
Toxic Relationships: The character of Paul is a symbol of relationships that cause further mental anguish instead of providing support or relief.
Indifference towards Suffering: Paul embodies the widespread apathy towards individuals undergoing serious mental health struggles.

“Paul said I was making it up. That there was nothing wrong with me.” - This quote represents Paul’s ignorance and dismissal of Joy’s mental struggle.
“Take more of these if you’re going to act so damned stupid,” He said, throwing the tablets towards me - Here, Paul’s insensitivity and lack of understanding for Joy’s condition is evident.
“Another scene, he said, that’s all I needed,” - The trivialisation of Joy’s struggles is clear in Paul’s dialogue, revealing his character’s true nature.