In ‘Contents of the Dead Man’s Pocket’ by Jack Finney, Tom Benecke can be seen as a flat character, especially when considering the traditional definitions of flat and round characters in literature. Flat characters are typically defined as those who remain largely the same throughout the story and do not undergo significant development or change.
Throughout the narrative, Tom is primarily focused on his work and ambition, which leads him to neglect other aspects of his life, including his relationship with his wife, Clare. His character is defined predominantly by his determination to succeed in his career, epitomized by his obsession with a single piece of paper that contains important information for a project he is working on. This singular focus showcases his traits of ambition and drive, but it also suggests a lack of depth, as we do not see him evolve emotionally or morally.
However, one might argue that Tom does exhibit some growth by the end of the story, as he confronts the dangers of his obsession and realizes the importance of prioritizing personal relationships over work. This moment of clarity could indicate a transition towards being a round character, yet it may not be sufficient to fully classify him as such, given that the change occurs in a very short timeframe and is driven by immediate circumstances rather than an integrated development throughout the story.
In conclusion, while Tom displays some potential for change, he largely remains a flat character focused on his goals, providing a compelling exploration of ambition and its potential costs.