Characterization is one of the most important tools in a writer's repertoire of literary devices. It's used as a means of relating theme, mood, tone, and bringing the reader closer to the characters by showing humanity, or the lack there of. In reading "Use of Force," by William Carlos Williams, the underlying emotions, basic motivations, and the regression from civil to uncivil behavior of men are exemplified in the main characters as they are developed, characterized, and revealed to the reader.
             It is obvious to the reader that hidden emotions and turmoil exist beneath the professional surface of the physician and the flushed skin of the little girl. The way the physician speaks of how, "they were spending three dollars on me," in an easily cynical and biting tone shows how he must conceal his feelings of contempt for the parents. He then goes on to notice certain things about the little girl, her "unusually attractive" quality for instance, illustrating inappropriate buried feelings. All this while the girl sits upon her father's lap, seemingly "inwardly, quiet," her feelings of hatred for the doctor and cool confidence in her ability to win calming her.
             The basic motivation of man to win and overpower another is one of the most prominent things the reader can see as he or she reads through "Use of Force." The particular motivation is exemplified in both the physician and the little girl as they both struggle for dominance over the other and use any means necessary to achieve such an end. As the physician says, "I too had got beyond reason. I could have torn the child apart in my own fury and enjoyed it," his thirst, his need to win becomes obvious even to the most elementary of readers. And the girl, her determination and will to be victorious is evident in her irrational continuation of the struggle even after her mouth and tongue were bloodied with i...