Men are at war with each other because each man is at war with himself

Men are at war with each other because each man is at war with himself

Francis Meehan, a character created by author Adrian McKinty in his Troubles Trilogy, embodies the idea that men are at war with each other because each man is at war with himself. Meehan is a complex and troubled individual, struggling with his own inner demons while also navigating the violent and tumultuous world of 20th century Northern Ireland.

Meehan is a former IRA member turned police officer, caught between two conflicting identities and loyalties. He is haunted by his past actions as a terrorist, grappling with guilt and remorse for the lives he has taken. At the same time, he is trying to reconcile his newfound role as a law enforcement officer, tasked with upholding the very laws he once fought against.

This internal conflict is mirrored in the external world around Meehan, where violence and bloodshed are a constant presence. The Troubles, a period of intense political and sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland, provide the backdrop for Meehan's struggles. The streets are filled with bombings, shootings, and riots, as rival factions fight for control and supremacy.

In this chaotic and dangerous environment, Meehan finds himself torn between his desire for peace and his instinct for survival. He is forced to make difficult choices, often sacrificing his own moral compass in order to navigate the treacherous waters of the conflict. As he grapples with his own inner turmoil, he becomes embroiled in a web of betrayal, deception, and violence that threatens to consume him.

Meehan's journey is a poignant and powerful exploration of the human condition, highlighting the destructive consequences of inner conflict and self-doubt. His struggles serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers of allowing our own demons to dictate our actions and decisions.