Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases

Jim learns his wife is in danger and makes the difficult choice to go AWOL.

Wife in Danger — Jim learns his wife is in danger Characters: Jim Colter, Tillie Colter Location: Military Camp
Go AWOL — Jim decides to desert his post Characters: Jim Colter, Cpl Lewis Location: Military Camp

Jim navigates war-torn streets, avoiding military patrols while racing against time.

Go AWOL — Jim decides to desert his post Characters: Jim Colter, Cpl Lewis Location: Military Camp
Return Journey — Jim navigates dangerous streets Characters: Jim Colter Location: War-torn Streets
Recall Memories — Jim remembers life with his wife Characters: Jim Colter, Tillie Colter Location: Various Locations
Purvis Advances — Purvis continues unwanted advances Characters: Ted Purvis, Tillie Colter Location: Waterloo

Jim continues his journey while Purvis advances on his wife, building tension toward inevitable confrontation.

Approach Home — Jim nears his home Characters: Jim Colter Location: Waterloo Neighborhood

Jim confronts Purvis to protect his wife, facing the consequences of his desertion.

Final Confrontation — Jim confronts Purvis to save his wife Characters: Jim Colter, Ted Purvis, Tillie Colter Location: Jim's Home
Resolution — Jim faces consequences of desertion Characters: Jim Colter, Tillie Colter, Mrs. Colter Location: Jim's Home

Story Breakdown

Jim's Motivation — Protecting his wife from unwanted advances
- Love for Tillie — Deep affection and commitment
- Marriage Vows — Promise to protect his wife
- War Separation — Forced absence creating vulnerability
Obstacles — Challenges Jim faces on his journey
- Military Patrols — Risk of capture for desertion
- War-torn Environment — Dangerous cityscape
- Time Pressure — Racing to reach wife before Purvis
- Personal Risk — Consequences of going AWOL
Antagonist — Ted Purvis and his unwanted advances
- Exploiting War Absence — Taking advantage of soldiers being away
- Sense of Entitlement — Believing he can take what he wants
- Threat to Marriage — Jeopardizing Jim and Tillie's relationship
Emotional Stakes — What's at risk in the story
- Marriage — Foundation of Jim and Tillie's relationship
- Honor — Jim's military honor vs. personal duty
- Safety — Tillie's safety and well-being
- Future — What happens after confrontation