Beginning of Essay
Many authors have used the two methods of symbolism and characterization to reveal a fundamental message in their books. Joseph Conrad, author of The Secret Sharer, used these two methods in order to communicate the message that a man must know himself completel ....

Middle of Essay
.... As the reader continues through the book, the Captain's first meeting with Leggatt communicates a closeness between the two men. "I was almost as much of a stranger on board as himself…at that moment I felt it most acutely" (28). The Captain still feels strangely about taking control of the ship, but he feels an impulsive connection with Leggatt. While Leggatt is close at his side, the Captain begins to think clearly and prepares a scheme to keep his secret sharer safe. "Such was my scheme for keeping my second self invisible. Nothing better could be contrived under the circumstances" (35). The Captain begins to think clearly and has ....