Nov 13 2008
The Character of Pronto Pike in Hanging Woman Creek by Louis L’amour
Pronto Pike is perhaps the orneriest critter ever known to man, but he also makes for a rather likeable main character due to his loyalty and willingness to share with and protect his friends. He is unfailing in his service and gratitude towards Eddie, and willingly accepts the job for Bill Justin despite the signs that the job may not be a very good one.
When it becomes obvious that the job is not safe he does ask Eddie “You want to quit?” (The Daybreakers p. 26). This gesture seems to come more from his friendship and concern for Eddie’s safety than from cowardice or even common sense on Pronto’s part. He is more relieved than frightened when Eddie replies that he would like to stay on the job.
His irascibility governs his persona very early on. As the story progresses, however, Pronto undergoes some significant changes. By the end of the story he has come to think of himself as a rancher – a person of respect and responsibility. In the early chapter these notions are entirely foreign to Pronto. Perhaps his willingness and ability to change mark the most endearing traits of Pronto Pike.
