As Ironweed’s protagonist, 58-year-old vagrant Francis Phelan faces a variety of internal doubts and struggles which drive the central conflict of the plot. Much of the tension and uncertainty of the novel arises from seemingly contradictory traits that Francis exemplifies. For instance, Francis is generous and friendly to almost everyone and quick to share a sandwich or a funny word (in his decidedly working-class speech). On the other hand, when threatened or insulted, he typically responds proudly and angrily, as his violent past indicates. Meanwhile, counterbalancing his quick temper is a reflective and thoughtful nature that holds sway in quiet moments—much of the text follows his deep and vivid trains of thought. Added to these contradictions is Francis’s love of freedom and motion and escape—all of which run counter to his deep-seated loyalty and love for his family and for the city of Albany. Impetuous and daring in moments of action, Francis also proves to be extremely cautious, avoiding, for instance, the threat of arrest at almost any cost.

The central action of the story plays out over a mere two days, so Francis doesn’t drastically change his nature on any of these points by the end of the book, though his decision not to keep attacking Little Red at the dormitory is a promising sign.