Brilliant Lies and Tomorrow When the War Began

Intro:
In Brilliant Lies by David Williamson and Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden, different types and aspects of conflict are explored. Both texts explore internal and external conflict, in particular the concept that conflict can be resolved in a variety of ways. In addition, the notion that conflict does not have to always be a negative thing. The fact that conflict is not always negative and can involve both external and internal issues tells us that conflict is multilayered. We witness different characters in both texts experiencing various levels of conflict from verbal, interpersonal and escalation. Sometimes conflict can force characters mature for the better and positive changes to their individual self can also be made. However, people involved in conflict can experience extreme emotional discomfort.

Conflict is not always a negative thing:
Core-
Can force people to confront and resolve issues that have affected them.
Brian is unaware of the damage to Susy and Katy- abuse as children


Related-
Brilliant Lies demonstrates the idea conflict is not always negative but in fact can have positive consequences. Sometimes it can force people to confront and resolve issues that have affected them. Throughout the play Brian is unaware of the damage he did to Susy and Katy when he abused them as children in their past years. He downplays all suggestions that he has done anything wrong, focusing only on his drinking and loss of money (insert quote). It is not until the end of the play we see Susy confront him and say “you’ve got no idea do you? To you it was just a funny little game”. Only then does Brian experience genuine remorse and internal conflict over his actions. This makes him feel uncomfortable and then he is able to genuinely apologize saying, “if what I did made you feel that way I’m appalled. I never realized it. I’m truly sorry”.
There is obvious conflict between the characters and their environment. There is inner/outer...