What do Lorraine's and John's dreams about their futures reveal about their personalities?

John wants to become an actor and Lorraine wants to become a writer. These are both artistic and creatively expressive aspirations. John is a very out-going, social guy who likes to entertain people and be the center of attention. Lorraine is more of an analytical thinker and whose idea it is to write the story of the Pigman. They both support each other in these goals and desires, too, even though their parents might not. For example, John says he thinks Lorraine could be an actress, too, but her mother would think differently, as in the following passage:

"The way her old lady talks you'd think Lorraine needed internal plastic surgery and seventeen body braces, but if you ask me, all she needs is a little confidence. She's got very interesting green eyes that scan like nervous radar--that is they used to until the Pigman died. Ever since then her eyes have become absolutely still, except when we work on this memorial epic" (19).

Thus, John explains that after the traumatic experience of losing Mr. Pignati, Lorraine only seems to come alive when she is writing.

Lorraine supports John's ambitions to become an actor, too. She notices that he is one of the best liars she's ever known and jokes about him by saying:

"He prevaricates just for prevaricating's sake. . . HIs own life is so boring when measured against his daydreams that he can't stand it, so he makes up things to pretend it's exciting" (27).

Since John is such a good liar, he could probably be able to take on any role in Hollywood. He was such a good actor when they met Mr. Pignati, for example, that he was able to con him out of $10.00. John is also the one who isn't afraid to skate around the house during a party to get attention. Because of his very social personality, he would make a great actor.

Lorraine might need a little more confidence, but she also tends to be the conscience between the two. For example, she tells John that they need to confess to Mr. Pignati about swindling him out of the money and she is very good and seeing people from their points of view. Being compassionate and insightful is a good quality to have as an author.