Ariana is a character in Neal Shusterman's novel Unwind, introduced as Connor's girlfriend at the beginning of the story. She plays a pivotal role in the initial events that set Connor's journey in motion.
Character Overview
Ariana is depicted as a young woman who is both beautiful and keenly aware of appearances, described by Connor as "a slave to fashion." Her choices and actions early in the novel highlight the difficult decisions faced by teenagers in the Unwind world.
Key Characteristics and Role
Her character is primarily defined by her relationship with Connor and her reaction to the threat of unwinding.
- Relationship with Connor: She is Connor's girlfriend when he discovers he is scheduled to be unwound.
- Physical Appearance: Noted for her beauty.
- Personality Trait: Characterized as being extremely fashion-conscious, to the point of being "a slave to fashion."
- Initial Agreement: When Connor plans to run away to escape unwinding, Ariana initially agrees to join him.
- Decision to Refuse: Crucially, she later backs out of their plan, choosing not to run away with him. This decision leaves Connor to face his situation alone and serves as a catalyst for his individual journey.
The table below summarizes her key attributes and role:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Role | Connor's girlfriend at the novel's outset |
| Appearance | Beautiful |
| Personality | Fashion-obsessed, described as "a slave to fashion" |
| Key Action | Initially agrees to run away, but later refuses |
Ariana's refusal to flee with Connor underscores the self-preservation instincts and fears that permeate the society of Unwind, ultimately pushing Connor into an unexpected path.
