Andrina: Theme: Alcohol

Overview

“Andrina” is one of George Mackay Brown’s most compelling short stories, in which the theme of alcohol plays a significant role.
The story involves an island community struggling with social and personal effects of alcohol abuse.
The protagonist is an old man, tormented by his past and his dependency on alcohol, while the ethereal character of Andrina brings hope and comfort.

Themes

Alienation and Dependence

The main character’s reliance on alcohol is a recurring element in the narrative.
This reliance causes him to isolate himself from the community and affects his perception of reality.

Regret and the Past

Through the protagonist’s frequent inebriation, Mackay Brown explores themes of regret and the past.
The protagonist uses alcohol as a means to escape painful memories.

Character Analysis

Protagonist

The protagonist is a complex character, portraying both weakness and resilience in handling his alcohol addiction.
His struggle with addiction forms a substantial part of the narrative, making him a relatable character and the personification of a widespread societal issue.

Techniques and Effects

Mackay Brown’s use of symbolism in portraying alcohol addiction is noteworthy.
By making the protagonist’s scars symbolise his addiction, the author effectively conveys the character’s inner turmoil.
The depiction of bleak surroundings resulting from the protagonist’s alcohol-induced haze illustrates the technique of imagery.

Quotes and Analysis

“Time and the bottle had made him an old man.” - This quote efficiently summarises the protagonist’s life, reflecting the regrets and the wasted time spent in alcoholism.
“He poured a little into his cup, like a medicine.” - This line shows how dependent the protagonist has become on alcohol, further emphasising the severity of his addiction.

It’s beneficial to parallel the connection between themes and characters and provide quotes as evidence while bearing in mind the variety of literary techniques used by George Mackay Brown.