[SP 1A] Couple identity, the sense of togetherness that a couple develops during a relationship as they think about short- and long-term plans, is necessary for a healthy life, strong marriage. When April and Frank meet for the first time, they fall madly in love with each other. Engrossed in Frank's stories, April swallows all of his overblown exaggerations, telling him that he is the “most interesting person” she has ever met (Yates 25). [SP 12] Soon the couple gets married, which satisfies the bitter disappointment of both. Frank finally feels like he's done something manly and strong, while April marries Frank to stave off the reality of his mediocrity. The Wheelers' physical connection proves strong, but their already tenuous mental connection weakens as the years pass. They realize that once they start playing roles in their marriage, the harder it becomes to come clean, to tell the truth, to reveal their true selves. April and Frank realize that they have played roles in their marriage at the same time that they realize that they have played roles individually. April loves the kind and brilliant Frank from New York, not the weak and insecure man he really is. Horrific fights dominate their lives, and they only resume their old roles when they try