The definition of believe is to have confidence in something. Having more confidence leads to greater individualism. In A Prayer for Owen Meany, John Irving demonstrates that embracing belief goes against mediocrity. Owen Meany goes far beyond mediocrity and stands apart from others. His various beliefs contribute to his exceptional status. Throughout the novel, Owen firmly believes that he is “GOD’S INSTRUMENT” (337), which intensifies his devotion to faith and religion.
Throughout Sunday school and church, Owen consistently exhibited superior knowledge and more intense emotions compared to others. Even as a child, he carried these sentiments, such as believing that the actions of Catholics amounted to an inexpressible atrocity (22) and perceiving their family’s departure from the church as a move that risked everlasting damnation (22). Following the demise of Johnny’s mother, their reactions diverged significantly. Johnny responded in a typical manner for a child: feeling sorrowful, distressed, and in need of companionship. Conversely, Owen expressed his reaction through a symbolic act by removing the claws from Johnny’s armadillo.
Johnny was initially unaware of the reason behind this action, but Owen later clarified that his hands were God’s instrument. Owen firmly believed in this notion, which astounded Dan as he found it remarkable that a child could derive such profound meaning. Consequently, Owen is far from average; he possesses strong opinions. This is evident in his contributions to the school paper under the alias The Voice, captivating the entire student body with his exceptional and perceptive posts.
Owen demonstrates an extraordinary ability to create turmoil through his writing. His strong conviction in his role as God’s instrument is clearly evident in this column and in his interaction with the headmaster, who suggests that he seek therapy. Owen beseeches God for forgiveness, declaring that others are unaware of their actions. Furthermore, he firmly believes that sacrificing his life in Vietnam is necessary to protect children. Owen’s actions reflect his refusal to settle for mediocrity. During a performance of A Christmas Carol, the audience is startled when Owen abruptly stands up and screams upon seeing his name and date of death on a fake gravestone. His unwavering belief in the authenticity of the gravestone sets him apart from the ordinary. His scream is far from ordinary, conveying a sense of terror. In another instance, Owen has a dream that reveals his mission to save the children. He relentlessly trains Johnny in basketball, despite Johnny’s confusion about the reasoning behind it.
When Johnny asks Owen what the point is, Owen insists that “IT’S NOT FOR A GAME” (303). Despite Johnny’s confusion, Owen continuously challenges conventional practice boundaries to accomplish their shot in under four seconds. After successfully achieving this, Owen ambitiously aims for less than three seconds, demonstrating to Johnny the power of faith. Owen’s boundless faith ultimately enables them to complete the shot in just two seconds, saving the children. Despite appearing eccentric and deviating from societal norms due to their relentless shot practice, it ultimately proves beneficial.
Owen’s persistent dedication to practicing, training, and seeking a combat role in Vietnam is acknowledged by his superiors and friends. He remarkably strives to be placed in battle, even though the possibility of death looms. Owen’s refusal to alter himself sets him apart from normal expectations, as he embraces the undeniable peculiarity of his voice and appearance without desiring changes. While it might be challenging for someone of Owen’s size to engage in rough games played by Johnny’s cousins, he suggests less aggressive alternatives. An insistence on surgery to rectify his voice by the vocal coach, Mr. McSwiney, is met with Owen’s resistance. He asserts that he has no intention of undergoing surgery and does not anticipate any change in his voice. Instead of concealing his distinctive voice, Owen proudly exhibits it by writing his school paper column in all capital letters that mirror his speaking style. This deliberate display of individuality characterizes him as different in the eyes of others.
He believes in being true to himself and trusts that God has a purpose for everything. This viewpoint sets Owen apart from others and distinguishes him as exceptional. John Irving skillfully constructs this character through the interactions with ordinary people, highlighting Owen’s peculiar physical and mental attributes. Owen’s story emphasizes that by finding something to have faith in, one can overcome the monotony of mediocrity. It shows that passion is essential in escaping the mundane and discovering one’s uniqueness, even if it does not lead to becoming another Jesus Christ.
