Frank Bascombe is a fictional character created by author Richard Ford. He is the protagonist in a series of novels, including The Sportswriter, Independence Day, and The Lay of the Land. Bascombe is portrayed as a middle-aged man navigating the complexities of life, relationships, and the American experience. Throughout the series, Bascombe reflects on his past, his career as a sportswriter, and his personal struggles, including his divorce and the challenges of fatherhood. His character is often seen as a representation of the modern American male, grappling with identity and purpose in a changing world.