The Boogeyman

Lester is a relatively static protagonist who does not undergo a significant arc or change during the narrative. He claims that guilt and feelings of responsibility for his children’s deaths compel him to visit the therapist, Dr. Harper. His choice to tell his story drives the narrative forward. However, Lester clarifies that his intention is to get events off his chest rather than learn from them. At the end of the story, he reluctantly agrees to further therapy with Dr. Harper, but the Boogeyman appears before he can schedule his next session and complete his internal change.

King explores the theme of Supernatural Versus Human Monstrosity through Lester. His character represents the human counterpart to the Boogeyman itself. While recounting his story, he inadvertently reveals a great deal about his character. While admitting to neglectful parenting, his comments also show him to be racist, misogynistic, and guilty of domestic abuse. These “tells” lead readers to question the reliability of Lester’s account, suggesting he may have murdered his children.

Lester also illustrates The Nature of Fear in the narrative. His fearfulness only exacerbates his monstrosity, culminating in him leaving his son as bait for the Boogeyman and fleeing the house until he knows it is safe to return.