In many literary works, authors include both the physical and emotional journeys of their characters, as well as how they reflect each other. Literal and mental movements play a central role in In the Lake of the Woods. The characters John and Kathy experience various changes throughout the novel, primarily as a couple. Tim O'Brien's use of characterization and the character's actions portray the couple's move to the cabin as the ultimate symbol of escaping the struggles in their relationship. Many events in the cabin showcased the multiple conflicts and secrets held in John and Kathy's relationship. At the beginning of the novel, the reader is informed about John hiding from Kathy that he took part in a massacre in Vietnam. They also discover that John has been spying on Kathy before the two started dating. Kathy, aware of the damage, the secrets and the espionage, never took action to try to make things better. After John's crushing defeat in his campaign, the two disappeared into a cabin to avoid embarrassment and harassment in their town. This physical escape describes John and Kathy as believing people...