Kelly's Boston Hustle: From Hero to Zero (Faster Than You Can Say "Shillelagh") in Far and Away
Ah, Kelly. The name might conjure up images of charming Irish lads with a twinkle in their eye. But in the movie "Far and Away," this Mike Kelly is about as charming as a rotten potato during the Irish Potato Famine (which is exactly what compels our heroes, Joseph and Shannon, to set sail for America in the first place). So, what exactly is Kelly's role in the grand scheme of Boston politics? Buckle up, because it's a wild ride.
The Big Kahuna of the Back Bay (Sort Of):
Kelly operates as a ward boss. Now, for those unfamiliar with the term, ward bosses were essentially the power players of their neighborhoods. They held sway over things like jobs, housing, and let's not forget, a healthy dose of political influence. Think of them as the ultimate middlemen, doling out favors in exchange for, well, loyalty (and probably a hefty chunk of your paycheck).
Friend or Foe? It Depends on How Deep Your Pockets Are:
For Joseph and Shannon, fresh off the boat and wide-eyed with dreams of American prosperity, Kelly initially seems like a lifeline. He throws them some menial jobs and a place to crash (probably a leaky basement, but hey, it's a roof!). But here's the kicker: there's always a price tag on Kelly's "generosity." He expects blind obedience and unwavering support, basically turning our protagonists into indentured servants.
The Plot Thickens (Like Irish Stew):
Things go south faster than a leprechaun chased by a hungry ferret. Joseph, with his fiery spirit and impressive boxing skills, starts questioning Kelly's shady dealings. This, unsurprisingly, doesn't sit well with the power-hungry bossman. Kelly banishes them from his little fiefdom, leaving Joseph and Shannon back on the streets, poorer and disillusioned, but ultimately free from Kelly's clutches.
So, What Did We Learn?
Kelly's role in Boston politics is a prime example of how the system can be manipulated for personal gain. It's a harsh lesson for our immigrants, but it also sets the stage for their journey westward, where they chase the dream of owning their own land and escaping the clutches of political machines like Kelly's.
FAQ: Mastering the Boston Hustle (Not Recommended)
- How to become a ward boss? Let's not - it probably involves questionable ethics and a whole lot of backroom deals.
- How to survive a Kelly-esque situation? Develop a talent for flattery (and maybe learn to box).
- How to avoid a Kelly in real life? Be wary of anyone promising something for nothing. Especially if they have a suspicious twinkle in their eye.
- Should I move to Boston for the political intrigue? Maybe stick to the museums and chowder, thanks.
- Is Mike Kelly a real historical figure? Not likely, but he represents a very real system that existed in many American cities in the late 19th century.
