Counterparts is a short story by James Joyce published in his 1914 collection Dubliners. James Augustine Aloysius Joyce (February 2, 1882 – January 13, 1941) was an expatriate Irish writer and poet, widely considered to be one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. ... 1914 (MCMXIV) is a common year starting on Thursday. ... Dubliners audio book cover Dubliners is a collection of short stories by James Joyce, published in 1914. ...

The story

The story recounts an evening in the life of a man named Farrington, frequently referred to simply as “the man.” Farrington’s difficulties begin at his clerical job when his boss Mr. Alleyne berates him for not having finished an assigment. Instead of applying himself immediately to the task, the alcoholic Farrington slips out of the office for a quick beer. When Mr. Alleyne yells at Farrington again, Farrington replies with an impertinent remark and has to apologize. We learn that Farrington’s relationship with his superior has never been a good one, partly due to Mr. Alleyne’s overhearing of Farrington mocking his North of Ireland accent. After work, Farrington joins his friends at various pubs, but only after he pawns his watch-chain for drinking money. Farrington’s account of his standing up to his boss earns him some respect. However, his revelries end in two humiliations: a perceived slight by an elegant young woman and defeat in an arm-wrestling contest. Farrington goes home in a foul mood. After learning that his wife is out, he beats one of his five children. The story ends on the little boy’s pleas for mercy.

References

• Joyce, James. Dubliners (London: Grant Richards, 1914)