Patrick Lewis' affair with Clara Dickens plays a role in overcoming his fear of love. After his night with Clara, Patrick realizes she is unlike any of the other women he has been with previously. Patrick's fear of love has always prevented him from becoming involved with anyone, creating a life of solitude for himself. However, while with Clara, Patrick is unable to deny his feelings and opens up his emotions to her, connecting with her mentally. Since Patrick has denied these feelings for many years, he quickly becomes engulfed with fears of falling in love. Clara connec

As Ondaatje indicated throughout the novel, one must take action and assume the skin of a lion as a way of standing up and being heard. Through Clara, Hana, and a near death experience, Patrick Lewis is able to take control and overcome his fear of love. Though he had spent most of his life in fear, avoiding love, Patrick is able to start a new life with Clara and his daughter. Often, barriers of language, culture and beliefs hold individuals back, imprisoning them in their own darkness. However, through assuming the skin of a wild animal, each individual can take responsibility for their story, freeing themselves from confinement and fear.

flash before his eyes. Believing he is going to die, Patrick regrets having run away from love for so many years, but feels satisfied he has finally allowed his emotions to come through to them. As well, before falling unconscious, Patrick says "I can't die, I haven't lived in the skin of a lion," (Ondaatje 156) symbolizing that Patrick wants the opportunity to take control of his own life, being ready to allow himself to fully experience his emotions. Since Patrick thought only of love during his near death experience, this signifies that Patrick has completely let go of his fear of love, being able to begin a new life. Through this event, Patrick comes to the realization he is ready to take action for himself. Though Patrick has spent countless years avoiding love, in fear of being hurt again, he is able to overcome his fear through Clara's and Hana's great love for him. Had Patrick never experienced their love, he would continue running f

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