# Will Olney — Martin Eden character guide

> Will Olney in Martin Eden by Jack London.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Billy, Bill, Olney, Willie

**First appearance:** 0006-v

## Who they are

A friend from Martin's sailor days who reappears later.

## In the story

### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se/chapters/xiii)

Skeptical of Spencer and Latin; argues that Martin should follow his own path; reveals a dislike for Ruth and a sense of his own purposelessness.

### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se/chapters/xix)

Mentioned by Ruth as someone she hates and who hates her, contrasting with her feelings for Martin.

### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se/chapters/xx)

Joins Norman and Arthur in the wrangle over 'frat' affairs during the sail.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se/characters/olney
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/martin_eden_se/characters