MBTI Type: ISFP

Cole does not attempt to fit in with the other children, instead preferring his own company – and later, Anne and that of some of her friends. He’s fine being an outcast, where at least he can respect himself and his own identity. When he finds out about Aunt Josephine and her lover, he admits to her (having found someone who can relate to him) that he is the same, but with boys. Cole is very quiet about his true self, choosing to open up to only those he feels can understand him. When he faces bullying at school, he simply quits – refusing to associate with people who do not respect him as an artist or for his sensitivities. He can be blunt and forceful in insisting on living life on his own terms, taking direct actions to establish himself in a better situation when he chooses to live with Aunt Josephine (inferior Te). He is an artist, who creates wonderful, unique pieces of art based on what he sees; he pays attention to details, and sees potential in even the specks of ink sprinkled across a page – under his deft fingers, it becomes Anne. Cole focuses on the present, at times despairing of the future; he’s good with aesthetics, able to help Anne decorate her hair into an attractive, artistic style. He flourishes when allowed to attend Aunt Josephine’s party, where he meets and mingles with Bohemian artists. Once aware this world exists, he’s more able to envision a future for himself outside the farm. When truly riled up, Cole settles his disagreement with another boy using his fists. He’s not afraid to hop a train, or make an decision to stay with Aunt Josephine.

Enneagram: 9w1 so/sp

Cole hates the fact that he is different from other boys, because it makes them reject him; he just wants to be “normal,” which baffles Anne, since she sees him as “special.” He doesn’t want to be special, he wants to fit in and be included—so when he finds a society of folk “like me” through Aunt Josephine, he finally finds the courage to run away from home and create a new life somewhere else. He’s happy to be there, where he can be accepted and free to be true to himself without fear of being punished, pushed away, or hated. Though a peaceful and solitary boy, Cole sometimes erupts into violence—he lashes out against the boys who destroyed his precious artwork, and leaves his father to do all the farm work himself. He often goes along with the agenda of whomever is around him, such as making sure Anne is safe on her journey into town.