An individual's actions and thoughts are often the product of their culture and experiences. These can provide a path to one's destiny. In his novel The Wars, Timothy Findley explores the origin of Robert Ross' incentives and investigates his actions as the protagonist strives to preserve life. An individual's course of action is often determined by a strong motivation to find fulfillment of their purpose. These motivations behind him or her are the driving factors that are vital to their success. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay In the early years of many people's lives, individuals often experience perspective-shifting 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 his ignorance in caring for his sister and "making love to pillows" during his time of need. Rowena's death plagues Robert's life and he decides he must fix it. Despite her mother's silent protest and cry against her decision to join the war effort, her motivation to find relief from this guilt pushes her to shut down. Despite the luxury in which he and his family live thanks to their wealth, Robert pays no attention to it and ultimately decides to obey his conscience. His disillusionment with his present life also comes from seeing how cruel and uncaring his brothers are. His brother, Stuart, taunts their horse for his sadistic pleasure and enjoys seeing his "ears droop" every time he swings a club over his head. Not at all horrified by Robert's decision to join the war, Stuart wishes he could show medals to his classmates: medals of honor and glory that are awarded to soldiers who lose their lives. Furthermore, Robert Ross's departure for training camps allows him to witness the harsh and ruthless way his life will suffer for the duration of the war. Unhindered, Robert becomes a successful artillery officer and proceeds through his progression through the ranks. His life changes drastically in a matter of a couple of months due to his search for how to fulfill his purpose. An individual in the adolescent stage of life often seeks purpose and meaning for their life, exactly what Robert aims to discover. Despite the countless difficulties one may face in the quest to achieve one's purpose, motivation can remain unhindered and perseverance is achieved. While cruising in France, Robert is outraged by the horrible conditions endured by the horses. He takes the initiative to provide better conditions for the miserable creatures and finds affinity with these creatures. His love for animals drives Robert Ross to discover that he will fulfill his purpose by serving life. After meeting Rodwell at the "Glass Dugout", she becomes further inspired by the miniature animal hospital operated by Rodwell. This affinity they share with animals brings them closer. Robert is constantly affected by the news of the deaths of his fellow officers and friends. Despite this, he is always motivated to never give up and continue to serve life. Upon Rodwell's death, Robert immortalizes the deceased man's legacy by releasing the healed toad into the wild. Aside from the daily horrors of seeing “mangled bodies” torn to pieces 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 perhaps by his own fellow officers. Despite this.