Who is J from A Wild Sheep Chase and what is their importance?

The character of J is only seen in the beginning and end of the novel, but appears to show the final changes within the main character. J is a successful businessman and a friend of both the main character and the Rat. He seems to be the one these individuals turn to each time they are in trouble. He asks for nothing in return. In the beginning, the main character goes to see J, and is somewhat uncaring and only thinks of his own needs. In the closing of the novel, however, he gives his new fortune to J to pay off his loans in exchange for continued shelter. In this way, the character shows the changes in the main character that take place throughout the story.