An individual's actions and thoughts are often the product of their upbringing and experiences. These can pave the way to one's destiny. In his novel The Wars, Timothy Findley explores the origin of Robert Ross's incentives and investigates his actions as the protagonist strives to preserve life. An individual's plan of action is often determined by a strong motivation to achieve their goal. These motivations behind him are the determining factors of their success. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Early in many people's lives, individuals often experience perspective-changing epiphanies and every event in their early life matters. Robert Ross's loss of his sister, Rowena, results in his reluctant guilt. He blames himself for not taking care of his sister and "making love to pillows" during her difficult times. Rowena's death torments Robert's life and he decides he needs to make up for it. Despite her mother's silent protests and outcry against her decision to join the war efforts, her motivation to find relief from this guilt motivates her. Despite the luxury with which he and his family live due to their wealth, Robert pays no attention to it and ultimately decides to obey his conscience. His disillusionment with his current life also results from seeing how cruel and uncaring his siblings are. His brother, Stuart, taunts their horse for his sadistic pleasure, enjoying seeing his "ears drop" every time he swings a bat over his head. Not even slightly dismayed by Robert's decision to enlist in the war, Stuart wishes he could show his classmates medals - medals of honor and glory that are awarded to soldiers who lose their lives. Additionally, Robert Ross's departure to the training grounds allows him to witness the strict and unforgiving mode his life will endure for the duration of the war. Unhindered, Robert became a successful artillery officer and continued his progression through the ranks. His life changes drastically in a matter of months due to his quest for a way to achieve his goal. An individual in the adolescent stages of life often searches for purpose and meaning in their life - exactly what Robert intends to discover. Despite the countless difficulties he may face in his quest to achieve his goal, his motivation can remain intact and his perseverance is achieved. During Robert's cruise to France, he is outraged by the horrible conditions the horses endure. He takes the initiative to provide better conditions for the miserable creatures and finds affinities with these creatures. His love of animals leads Robert Ross to discover that he will fulfill his purpose by serving life. Upon meeting Rodwell at the "Glass Dugout", he is further inspired by the miniature animal hospital that Rodwell runs. This kinship that they share with animals brings them together. Robert is constantly struck by the news of the deaths of his fellow officers and friends. Despite this, he is still motivated to never give up and continue serving in perpetuity. When Rodwell dies, Robert immortalizes the deceased's legacy by releasing the cured toad into the wild. Besides the daily horrors of seeing "mutilated bodies" torn apart by the relentless and merciless nature of war, Robert faces a similar abomination. He is exploited in his most vulnerable moment and is brutally raped by perhaps his own fellow officers. Regardless of this barbarity, he pulls himself together quite quickly compared to a person.