Dylan Character Analysis in The Midnight Library

Dylan is a kind, cheerful man whose love of dogs is rivaled only by his love for Nora. When Nora visits the version of her life where she works at an animal shelter in Bedford, she awkwardly discovers that Dylan is her boyfriend. She has mixed feelings about this, as Dylan is extremely sweet, caring, and sensitive, but he’s also overly cheerful and not very interesting to talk to. His love of dogs also seems excessive, and Nora silently compares him to a dog himself: loyal and lovable, but too simple and uncomplicated for Nora’s taste. Dylan represents a life that’s happy but not quite right for Nora, who figures that Dylan deserves the version of her who can love him completely.

Dylan Character Timeline in The Midnight Library

The timeline below shows where the character Dylan appears in The Midnight Library. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

...the other workers and some of the dogs, she meets one especially kind employee named Dylan. She awkwardly discovers that Dylan is her boyfriend in this life, recognizing him as the... (full context)

Dylan is sweet and affectionate, but Nora isn’t sure she can love him in the same... (full context)

Regret, Depression, and Suicide Theme Icon

As Nora and Dylan have dinner in the Mexican restaurant, Nora recalls eating at this same place with Dan... (full context)

Later that evening, Nora watches Last Chance Saloon 2 at Dylan’s house, which seems to be full of dogs. The smell is a bit overwhelming, and... (full context)

Philosophy and the Meaning of Life Theme Icon

...it’s closed in this life as well, just as it was in her life with Dylan. She remembers how much that music shop had meant to people, and feels a swell... (full context)

...dusty and almost never in use. She insists that Nora call her Louise. Nora spots Dylan walking a dog outside, and wonders if her landlord would allow her to have a... (full context)