Raymond’s Run

In Raymond’s Run by Toni Cade Bambara we have the theme of respect, dedication, identity, love, acceptance, responsibility,
confidence, connection, rivalry and friendship. Taken from her Gorilla, My Love collection the story is narrated in the first person by
a young girl called Squeaky and after reading the story the reader realises that Bambara may be exploring the theme of dedication.
Squeaky spends her time when she is not practicing her running, looking after her older brother Raymond. This may be important as it
suggests that Squeaky is dedicated to not only her running but also to taking care of Raymond. She won’t let anybody take advantage
of Raymond and is protective of him. Which may also be important as it is possible that Squeaky through her dedication to Raymond
loves him very much. She appears to be the type of individual who will not let another person take advantage of those who are weaker
or deemed to be weaker. The reader also suspects that the other children in the neighbourhood respect Squeaky not so much because
she looks after Raymond but because they are afraid of Squeaky. Squeaky is feisty and does not let others take advantage of either her
or Raymond. Something that many readers will find admirable.

How serious Squeaky takes her running is also noticeable by the fact that throughout the story she is practicing her breathing. She
wants to win the race on May Day and if anything is exceptionally confident that she will win the race. This confidence may be
important as Squeaky may have to be confident not only for herself but for Raymond too. She knows that there are cruel people in the
world who would take advantage of Raymond if they could. So Squeaky has to be tougher than her years. Raymond is her
responsibility and she knows the duty is on her to protect him. Where some young girls may only have to look out for themselves.
This is not the case when it comes to Squeaky. Throughout the story Squeaky while she is practicing her breathing keeps an eye on
Raymond. Similarly, on the day of the race. Squeaky always knows where Raymond is and what he is doing. There is also a sense that
there is a connection between Squeaky and Raymond that goes beyond the connection one would expect to see between sister and
brother. It may also be a case that Squeaky is trying to find her own identity. Though she appears to be confident on the outside. She
may not necessarily be confident on the inside. Which may suggest an internal conflict within Squeaky.

The day of the race is also interesting as the reader realises not only how important the race is to Squeaky but how serious she takes it.
While most children might run for fun. Squeaky doesn’t. There is a sense that Squeaky’s pride is at stake should she not win the race.
If anything Squeaky oozes confidence and the reader is left hoping that Squeaky does win the race as a loss may shatter her
confidence. The fact that the race is close may also be important as Squeaky respects Gretchen for running such a good race even
though neither girl knows who has won the race. The race has united both girls where previously when they met on the side of the
street there was some bitterness between both girls. It is as though neither girl had trusted the other. This could be important as it
highlights the competitive streak not only in Squeaky but with Gretchen too. Neither girl wants to be beaten by the other or by
anybody. Which is something that would suggest that both girls have an inner strength or a string desire to win.

The end of the story is interesting as Raymond takes centre stage while Squeaky is waiting for the results of the race. This could be
important as Bambara might be further highlighting just how deeply in love with her brother Squeaky is. For a moment she forgets
about who has won the race and focuses on something that is far more important, Raymond. Squeaky also thinks that maybe she could
train Raymond how to run. This may be important as for the first time in the story Squeaky is putting aside the most important thing in
her life (her running) and thinking about helping someone else to run. Perhaps she is aware that Raymond too might get as much
enjoyment out of running as she does. There is also a sense that any barriers that existed between Squeaky and Gretchen have been
torn down when Gretchen congratulates Squeaky for winning the race. Their smile to one another appears to be honest and sincere and
unlike how they might have smiled to each other previously. It is as though both young girls respect one another. If anything the
reader is left sensing that any animosity or rivalry that existed between Squeaky and Gretchen will be no longer. Their smile to one
another after the race may be the starting point of a friendship and an ability to accept each other for who they are. Two young girls
with a love for running who have no need to be hostile towards each other.

Blood Brothers
In Blood Brothers by John Wickham we have the theme of hate, conflict discontent, connection, jealousy, fear, independence and
confidence. Narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator the reader realises after reading the story that Wickham may be
exploring the theme of hate and conflict. Paul is uncomfortable with his relationship with his twin brother Benjy. He dislikes the fact
that Benjy appears to be able to do things that Paul himself cannot do. Paul also dislikes not being as brave as Benjy and in many ways
uses Benjy as his benchmark for doing things. This may be important as Wickham may be suggesting that Paul compares himself to
Benjy. When the reality is he has no need to. If anything Benjy’s influence on Paul affects Paul’s confidence and his belief in himself.
Which may be the point that Wickham is attempting to make. He may be suggesting that should a person continually compare
themselves to another person they will inevitably be unhappy. Something which is very much the case when it comes to Paul. He is an
unhappy child based solely on what he perceives are his insufficiencies. At no stage does Paul think of the things that he is good at
rather his main focus is on how he is not as good as Benjy at things.

There is also a sense that Paul is afraid of failure or at least what he perceives to be failure. The walk at night time with his father and
Benjy being an example. Yet at the same time Paul wants to make a connection with Benjy. Even if it means that he feels as though he
is second best to Benjy. This too may be important as Wickham could be highlighting how deep and strong the bond is between Paul
and Benjy. Though Paul may hate Benjy. He still wants to be his friend. He wants to have a loving relationship with his brother.
Benjy’s character is also interesting as he appears to be completely secure within himself and free of other people’s opinions of him.
Unlike Paul who seems to judge himself based solely on Benjy’s actions. If anything Paul lacks the independence to be his own
person and some critics might suggest that Paul is jealous of Benjy’s abilities. If this is the case, then Paul will never be happy as he
will always be looking to see if he can better Benjy rather than living each day as it comes.

There is also some symbolism in the story which may be important. The casuarina tree and the appearance it takes on at both night and
day time in many ways mirrors Paul’s change in mood when he and Benjy are at Mac’s. The angelic appearance of the tree during the
day in many ways mirrors how Paul lives his life. However, the appearance that the tree takes on in the evening when it is dark also
mirrors Paul’s reaction to Benjy when Benjy asks him to play with him. The leather that Paul is punching holes into may also have
some symbolic significance as the reader is aware that the leather in Mac’s shop is used to make and repair shoes. By having Paul
playing with the leather Wickham could be symbolically suggest that Paul is making a new pair of shoes to walk in. Something that is
clearer to the reader when Paul attacks Benjy. The fact that Mac is unaware of what is happening and thinks that both boys are playing
may also be important as it could suggest that the battle that Paul feels he is facing with Benjy is not a public battle but a personal
battle.

The end of the story is also interesting as Wickham appears to be exploring the theme of fear. Benjy is afraid of Paul after he threatens
him with the sharp awl. For the first time in the story Benjy shows fear. This may be important as it is through showing fear that the
reader suspects that Benjy may now have an understanding for how Paul feels. In reality the attack connects both Paul and Benjy.
Though at the time neither boy would be aware of this. It is also possible that through the experience of the attack both Paul and Benjy
will become closer to one another. With Benjy probably knowing or understanding how Paul feels. If anything their relationship will
grow and prosper. Paul has stood up for himself and by doing so has defined himself. Whether he meant to do so is another thing but
the important thing is that he has done it. He has stood on his own two feet and not let Benjy get the better of him. Which may leave
some readers to suggest that Benjy will treat Paul as an equal rather than as somebody that he can taunt and use for his own
amusement.

The Man of the House

In The Man of the House by Frank O’Connor we have the theme of innocence, temptation, guilt, responsibility, control, resilience,
redemption and acceptance. Taken from his Collected Stories collection the story is narrated in the first person by a man called Gus
Sullivan who is looking back at an incident in his life when he was ten years old. It is also after reading the story that the reader
realises that O’Connor may be exploring the theme of responsibility. Gus tries on several occasions to act older than his years. He
lights the fire in the house. He does the shopping for his mother and he goes to the dispensary to get the medication for his mother.
However, it is noticeable that while he is at the dispensary Gus does end up drinking his mother’s medication. Which leads to Gus
feeling not only guilty but struggling with his conscience. It is also interesting that O’Connor throughout the story looks unfavourably
on most of the male characters in the story. The man in the bar comes across as not only been a drunk but also as an irresponsible
buffoon. With no real connection with the world. This may be deliberate as O’Connor may be attacking the male dominated society
that existed in Ireland at the time the story was written.

The fact that Gus is tempted by the young girl at the dispensary to drink his mother’s medication is also important as not only is it the
first occasion in the story in whereby Gus lets himself down. But O’Connor may be drawing on the biblical story of Adam and Eve
(and the apple) in the Garden of Eden. Prior to taking the medication Gus’ concentration levels and his desire to do the right thing for
his mother were high. Things were going well for him and he was acting responsibly. It is only when he becomes enamoured with the
girl that he loses concentration and forgets what his intentions really are. It is also noticeable that for such a young boy the guilt
becomes unbearable for Gus. Not only does he feel he has let his mother down but he also feels guilty because he won’t be able to pay
for a candle in the Cathedral. Having spent the money on sweets (for the girl). The fact that Gus can’t say his prayer and light a candle
in the Cathedral may also be important as O’Connor may be putting a spotlight on the Church and the practice of paying for prayers.

The only thing stopping Gus from going to the Cathedral and lighting the candle is the fact that the Church has an expectation (at
times) that an individual pay for their prayer. Something which Gus has most likely been taught. How influential the Church is (at the
time the story was written) is noticeable by the fact that Gus adheres to the principles of paying for his prayers and doesn’t go to the
Cathedral to light the candle. Based solely on the fact that he has no money. If anything Gus may feel trapped by the conditions
imposed on him by the Church. Conditions which would seem to be more about the Church making money rather than assisting the
individual. It is also possible that O’Connor is using the candle (and prayer) as symbolism for hope. If this is the case it is noticeable at
the end of the story that Gus feels a miracle has happened. His mother has gotten better without the need of the candle or prayer.
Which may be important as O’Connor could again be putting a spotlight on the Church. Possibly questioning again, the practice of
paying for candles (or prayers). When there may be no need to.

What is also interesting about the story is that though Gus’ mother is poorly. She does not scorn Gus when he returns from the
dispensary. Instead she takes care of him. Thinking of Gus rather than of herself. Gus’ mother is also resilient. When Gus first sees
that his mother is sick, she smiles at him. This may be important as not only does it suggest that Gus’ mother doesn’t want to upset
Gus but she also is displaying an exterior toughness. She won’t be beaten by what life throws at her. Regardless of the circumstances
she might find herself in. It may also be important that when Gus takes control of the situation, when his mother is in bed, rather than
it being Gus who is writing down what needs to be done. It is his mother who is doing the writing. Gus without knowing it seems to
be dictating or ordering his mother. It is him telling her what to do. Which may again play on how the female was treated by the male
at the time the story was written. By having Gus tell the reader that ‘It’s funny about women, the way they’ll take orders from
anything in trousers.’ O’Connor may be highlighting how dominated women may have been (by men) at the time the story was
written.

The end of the story is also interesting. Gus feels that a miracle has happened when he wakes up and discovers that his mother is
better. It is also noticeable that Gus has redeemed himself. He has told his mother the truth about what has happened. Hiding nothing
from her. If anything he is closer to his mother. Gus also realises that he is too young for responsibility and that it is better if someone
else takes on that role. His one attempt at being responsible, though good natured, was not successful. He was led to temptation,
suffered guilt and because of the practices of the church (paying for prayers) was unable to say the prayers that he wanted to for his
mother. Gus spent his day in an adult world. A world which he may not realise is dysfunctional. As to why it is dysfunctional is left to
each individual reader to decide. Gus just appears to be happy that he is a child again. A happy and innocent child who has yet to fully
learn of the complexities of life. Though he does accept that he is not a good nurse.

The 2 Grandmothers
In The Two Grandmothers by Olive Senior we have the theme of tradition, modernity, identity, change, independence, connection,
materialism, insecurity and coming of age. Taken from her Arrival of the Snake-Woman and Other Stories collection the story is
narrated in the form of several letters (an epistolary narrative) sent by a young unnamed girl to her mother. What is also interesting
about the story is the fact Senior appears to be comparing both Grandmothers to each other by way of tradition versus modernity.
Grandmother Del would be more traditional than Grandmother Elaine. She is a regular church goer, she believes in making her own
clothes and tries to keep the narrator as level-headed as possible through her own personal beliefs. Something which is in complete
contradiction to the more modern Grandmother Elaine. Who is either separated or a widow but who nonetheless throughout the story
manages to have three separate boyfriends. It is also interesting that Grandmother Elaine tells the narrator to call her Towser. This
may be important as it suggests that the younger Elaine does not associate herself with the idea of being a grandmother. If anything
she is still young at heart and believes in living her life on her own terms. Though it is interesting that she is reliant on modern
technology while Grandmother Del, who leaves a less materialistic live, manages to exist without the latest technological gadgets.

It may also be important that the narrator follows the wisdom of Grandmother Del. Till she reaches a certain age when there is a
noticeable change in the narrator. No longer does she like to visit Grandmother Del nor does she like Grandmother Del’s neighbours.
It is also noticeable that the narrator has become more like Towser in her outlook on life. She like many young girls wishes to dress
herself, wear make-up and live a more materialistic life. Something that is noticeable by way of the fact that the narrator complains to
her mother that Grandmother Del only has a black and white television. What is also interesting is the connection that the narrator has
with both her grandmother’s. The narrator when she is younger is more connected to Grandmother Del. However, as she grows older
and enters womanhood the reader discovers that the narrator feels more of a connection with Towser. It might also be important that
Towser is relying on her looks as she grows older whereas Grandmother Del appears to live a simpler life and is more self-reliant than
Towser. If anything each of Towser’s suitors are paying for her lifestyle.

Though some critics might suggest that Grandmother Del is living an old-fashioned lifestyle. It may be important to remember that
she is also poor. She cannot afford to do the things that Towser does nor does it appear as though Grandmother Del would wish to. It
might also be important to consider how independent Grandmother Del and Towser are. Grandmother Del is forced to be self-
sufficient and she manages very well with the little that she has. Towser as mentioned appears to be reliant on others and is far from
independent. Something that the narrator does not seem to notice. Such is the development in her growth and her belief that Towser
lives a better life. The reader is also fully aware that the narrator is basing her opinion on materialism. The narrator is at an age in
which appearance is important to her and so too are material possessions. It is also noticeable that the narrator from the start of the
story to the end is developing her identity. Where once she was happy to have castor oil rubbed into her hair as she has gotten older
the narrator prefers to use conditioner.

It may also be significant that the narrator falls out with so many of her peers throughout the story. Where once she had empathy for
some of Grandmother Del’s neighbours. Pearlie being an example. As she has grown older the narrator considers Pearlie to be an
embarrassment. The narrator basing her opinion solely on Pearlie’s physical appearance and the fact that Pearlie is wearing torn
clothes. If anything the narrator has come of age and is beginning to see her life and other people’s lives in a different manner. Where
once the narrator might have been considered innocence. This is not the case as the narrator matures. She is wholly focused on herself
as she grows up and other people’s opinion of her appear to matter to the narrator. Something that becomes clear to the reader when
Maureen uses a racial slur to describe the narrator. If anything it may be a case that as the narrator has grown she has become more
insecure. She may have the appearance she has desired but she is not really any happier. She has been influenced by material
possessions where once she was happy to wear Grandmother Del’s homemade dresses. In reality the narrator is forgetting about the
traditions of Grandmother Del in preference for the more modern approach of Towser. Something that is clearer to the reader by the
fact that the narrator no longer wishes to visit Grandmother Del.

Georgia and Them There United States

In Georgia and Them There United States by Velma Pollard we have the theme of discontent, connection, pride, shame and the
American Dream. Narrated in the first person by a young Jamaican girl called June the reader realises after reading the story that
Pollard may be exploring the theme of discontent. Aunt Teach appears to be discontent with life in her Jamaica. She has nothing good
to say about it. A marked contrast from what she thinks of Brooklyn. June on the other hand is not really sold on the American Dream.
She sees poverty and waste in Brooklyn. It is nothing like what Aunt Teach has told her. Georgia herself also seems to be impressed
with Brooklyn and has acclimatized by beginning to wear a blonde wig, just like Aunt Teach. It is also interesting that at no stage in
the story does June make any real connection in Brooklyn. It is a world that is alien to her and one that remains unexciting.

What is also interesting about the story is the attachment that June has to Jamaica. Though she is excited about America she till knows
where her real home is. It is the simple things in life that she likes. How the sun shines, how the path to her home is almost vertical.
Little things like that thrill June and later on in the story the reader discovers that Brooklyn has nothing on June’s homeland. Unlike
Aunt Teach who has immersed herself fully in her new home. Any remnants of her past seem to be forgotten now that she lives in
Brooklyn. This may be important as Pollard could be contrasting June and Aunt Teach. How Aunt Teach is impressed by the idea of
freedom, yet she has changed herself completely and may possibly have forgotten her roots. Though it is true that Aunt Teach gets
along with all her work mates there is a sense that she has forgotten her family (apart from Georgia). She wants them to come to
America too and as such there is a sense that she wants them to adjust to Brooklyn and by doing so forget about their roots.

There may be some symbolism in the story which might be important. June is impressed with the American clothes she receives from
Aunt Teach so there may still be a part of her that would like to go to America. If America was more like home. This is
understandable as the American Dream is a global aspiration. Many people from many different countries believe in the American
Dream. Most likely because it is sold so well. Though not by Aunt Teach who may live in worse conditions than June. The fact that
June has shaved her hair may also be symbolically significant. She is showing who she is and where she is coming from. If anything
she is proud of her roots. Whereas Aunt Teach and Georgia have completely changed how they look possibly out of embarrassment
and a desire to blend in with white America.

The end of the story is interesting as the reader gets a true sense about how June feels. She asks her father not to tell anyone she went
to America. This is important as it highlights the fact that June may feel ashamed about going to America. America is a very different
world to the world June knows and it does not suit her personality or character. She is a home bird and happy to be one. She no longer
has aspirations to live in America (if she ever had) and is old enough and wise enough to make up her mind. She knows that she can
live a peaceful and happy life at home and does not need to go to America to find happiness. Which does not appear to really exist
apart from in Aunt Teach’s head. America represents change for June. A change which may or may not be pleasant. There is no sense
either that June will change her mind. During her stay in Brooklyn she has seen enough to know where her home really is.

What Happened?

In What Happened by Austin Clarke we have the theme of racism, love, friendship, education, idealism, realism and anger. Taken
from his When He Was Free and Young and He Used to Wear Silks collection the story is narrated in the third person by an unnamed
narrator and after reading the story the reader realizes that Clarke may be exploring the theme of racism. Henry found it hard to get an
apartment for himself and Agatha because of the colour of his skin. Being a black man he was considered to be inferior to the white
landlords. Something that annoyed Henry so much that he painted a swastika on the door of one landlady’s home. What is also
interesting about the story is that Agatha, a white woman, appears to be very idealistic when it comes to race. Where she imagines
how a black person should be, Henry is more realist because of his experiences with white people.

In fact, it would appear as though the only thing that drives Henry is his anger towards white people. For him, he feels as though he is
a victim and very may well be. Henry does not have the same capacity as Agatha to see black people as beautiful. Something that is
noticeable by the pictures on Henry’s apartment wall. The picture of the three young girls being an example. Agatha and Boysie think
the girls are beautiful but all Henry can see is three malnourished girls. Which only fuels Henry’s anger. Which very may well be
justified. No person, regardless of their skin colour, wants to be victimized. Though it does look like Henry revels in the role of victim.

There is no doubting that Henry and Boysie are friends and that they can say anything to one another without the fear of reprimand or
the friendship being dissolved. They even go as far as sharing the same mistress (Brittany) and this does not have a negative effect on
their friendship. However, one area they do disagree seriously on is the matter of Boysie thinking how lucky Henry is to have Agatha
because she is so educated. Henry does not see this as an advantage at all. Possibly because he is against the idealism that comes with
Academia. Again Henry is a realist and believes that experience and not idealism shapes the person. Boysie on the other hand believes
in the importance of education and is envious if not jealous of Henry. Something that Henry simply does not understand.

Though Henry has cheated on Agatha and hit her the end of the story highlights the fact that in reality he really loves her and has the
ability to get in touch with his deepest feelings. In reality he knows that Agatha is a good match for him regardless of what he might
say to Boysie. If anything, through the poem, it would appear as though Henry is trying to fight against his instinct of causing damage
to others because of his own experiences. He knows that he is a better man for being married to Agatha and understands that she has
taken a risk, particularly with her family, by marrying him. Agatha’s parents disagree with the marriage because it is interracial. This
is important as it plays on the theme of racism again. Agatha’s parents do not feel as though Henry is worthy of Agatha’s love.
Something that some readers might agree with considering how Henry has previously treated Agatha. The only redeeming quality for
some readers might be the fact that Henry has the capacity to change. Though he may not possibly forget his life experiences.

Berry
In Berry by Langston Hughes we have the theme of connection, racism, dishonesty, greed, acceptance, compassion and responsibility.
Narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator the reader realises after reading the story that Hughes may be exploring the theme
of connection. Milberry through his efforts at the Home manages to connect with the young disabled children. It is as though he
understands their difficulties and rather than ignore them as others do. He helps them to the best of his abilities. Spending most of his
time after he has finished working playing with the children. Symbolically Milberry’s connection with the children may also be
important as Hughes could be using the physical disabilities of the children to highlight the social disability that Milberry has to
endure due to his skin colour. Everybody, apart from the children, takes advantage of Milberry. He is paid less than the previous
kitchen-boy simply because of his skin colour and those who work in the home are prepared to see Milberry do their work rather than
do the work for themselves. If anything Hughes may be highlighting how dishonest those in the Home actually are. Something that is
clear to Milberry and the reader by way of the fact that the children are treated so badly.

If anything the main purpose of the Home is not to take care of the children but rather to make a profit. Which may suggest that those
in charge of the home are monetizing the misfortune of others for their own gain. Something which some readers may suggest is an
example of greed. It may also be a case that Milberry is wise enough to know that he is being taken advantage of. He appears to have a
good insight into each of the employees at the Home and the reader leans towards Milberry’s assertions about them. Though Milberry
looks unfavourably towards others he is not wrong in his assessment of each individual’s character. The fact that Milberry is the only
black person at the Home may also be important as Hughes could be suggesting that Milberry due to his skin colour is in the minority.
That he faces an uphill battle when it comes to the other employees in the home. If this is the case, then Hughes is again placing a
spotlight on racism and how widespread it may actually have been at the time the story was written.

The fact that Milberry never complains about the position he is put in by the other employees might also be important as there is a
sense that Milberry due to his skin colour accepts the role that he must play in the Home. Something that would have been common at
the time for many black people. Not only did black people have to take a lower wage than white people but they also had to accept
that white people considered themselves to be superior and as such would dictate to black people. Hughes may also be suggesting that
Milberry only stays at the Home for one reason. He knows what it is like to be hungry and does not wish to experience that feeling
again. Though he knows he is being taken advantage of he would prefer to be in employment than not having a job at all. Also
Milberry is attached to the children in the Home. If anything Milberry is the only one who feels for them or cares about them. This
may be important as not only does it suggest that Milberry has the ability to connect with the children but he also is compassionate
enough to understand their pain.

The end of the story is also interesting as Hughes appears to be exploring the theme of responsibility. Milberry is blamed for the
breaking of the wheelchair yet he is not responsible. The reader left feeling that should Milberry be white than Dr Renfield would
have accepted that the breaking of the wheelchair was an accident. How dishonest Dr Renfield actually may be is noticeable by the
fact that he fires Milberry and deducts eight dollars from his wages. Leaving Milberry with no money or no prospects. Which may be
the point that Hughes is attempting to make. It is possible that he is suggesting that black people at the time where reliant on white
people in order to survive. By firing Milberry for no good reason Dr Renfield has created an obstacle for Milberry. The children too
will be at a loss. Something that does not seem to register with Dr Renfield and further suggests to the reader that the Home is being
run for profit. It is also interesting that nobody helps Milberry or intervenes. It is as though Milberry is being judged not only for
something he did not do but by his skin colour too. If anything there are two injustices in the story.
Mint Tea

In Mint Tea by Christine Craig we have the theme of pity, charity, anger, loss, connection, happiness, innocence and security.
Narrated in the third person by an unnamed narrator the reader realises after reading the story that Craig may be exploring the theme
of pity and charity. Florence takes Esmie into her home because she pities her. She cannot understand how a girl of eighteen can be
abandoned by the Home with nothing but their personal belongings. This may be important as it is possible that Craig is criticizing
institutional life. How a child can spend their formative years without learning anything or being prepared for the outside world.
Something which is very much the case when it comes to Esmie. If anything Esmie is lost in the outside world having spent so long
being institutionalized. It is as though she has been forgotten about by society. Something which raises anger within Florence while
she is talking to the Matron on the telephone. Florence is fully aware that if Esmie is left to her own devices things will not work out
for her. Hence Florence offering Esmie a room in her home.

It is also possible that Craig is exploring the theme of loss. Both Florence and Esmie have lost people they have loved. With Florence
it is her mother, father and Annie and with Esmie it is her mother and father. There is no sense that either woman has ever reconciled
their feelings when it comes to the sense of loss that they feel. Despite the passing of time Florence with limited memories can
remember some of the good times she spent with her family. While Esmie can remember the fire that killed her parents. The fire
which killed Esmie’s parents might also be important as not only has Esmie been scarred by the incident but she is also afraid to lose
people that she has become close to. Juliet and Florence being examples. In reality Esmie does not wish to lose the connection she
feels she has with people who she becomes close to. It is for this reason that she decides to make Florence a cup of mint tea. If
anything the cup of mint tea may symbolise a sense of connection for Esmie. A device that will reassure Esmie that everything will be
okay. That she has security in her life.
It may also be a case that Craig is using the flowers mentioned in the story to symbolise happiness for Florence. Just as the flowers
were in full bloom. Florence may have felt as though her own life was in full bloom. She was surrounded by family without a care in
the world. Her family were alive (and healthy) and she had yet to set out on her life as a teacher. If anything it may have been a time
of not only happiness but innocence too. An innocence that has slowly been chiselled away with the passing of time. The bible which
Florence gives Esmie and the fact that they attend church together might also further suggest a strong connection symbolically
between Florence and Esmie. Florence wants Esmie to live a good life one in which she will not stray. In reality Florence wants the
best for Esmie though she only has gotten to know her. It is for this reason that she wants Esmie to join the church choir. Something
that Florence feels may be a positive influence in Esmie’s life. As to why Esmie does not wish to join the choir is difficult to say but it
is possible that she does not wish to get too close to others. In fear that they too might abandon her as she has been abandoned by the
Home.

The end of the story is interesting as Craig highlights just how connected to one another Florence and Esmie might be. By listening to
Esmie’s story about how her parents died Florence herself reflects on the death of her own parents and Annie. Which may leave some
readers to suspect that like Esmie, Florence has nobody in her life. There is a cousin but that relationship seems to be conducted at a
distance (telephone). At no stage in the story does anybody actually visit Florence’s home and her only engagement with the outside
world is when she calls the Matron of the home, when she goes to Church and when she goes shopping. Which may be the point that
Craig is attempting to make. She may be suggesting that both Florence and Esmie are reliant on each other. Even if Florence may not
be aware of this. Esmie on the other hand has grown attached to Florence as Florence provides stability to Esmie’s life. Just as the
Home might have. However, the difference between the Home and Florence’s home is the fact that Florence wishes for Esmie to reach
goals she knows she can reach in life. Though she may have retired. Florence remains a teacher at heart.

Mom Luby and the Social Worker

In Mom Luby and the Social Worker by Kristin Hunter we have the theme of love, responsibility, kindness, bureaucracy, connection,
innocence and change. Narrated in the first person by a young thirteen-year-old boy called Elijah the reader realises after reading the
story that Hunter may be exploring the theme of love. Mom Luby puts both Elijah and his sister Pudding before everyone else. She
knows that it is her responsibility to look after them and as such goes to the government buildings seeking help (welfare). This may be
important as Mom Luby knows that she is not entitled to welfare for the children but as they have no one else to look after them she
takes on the responsibility. Whereas others might let Elijah and Pudding fend for themselves. Mom Luby knows that this is not an
option. If anything Mom Luby is driven by doing the right thing for Elijah and Pudding. Knowing well that their lives would be even
more difficult should they be left to their own devices. In reality Mom Luby is Elijah and Pudding’s mother in everything but name.
She treats both children as though they were her own. She is kind to them and firm when she needs to be.

It may also be important that Miss Rushmore spends all of her time in Mom Luby’s home asking Mom Luby questions. Questions that
Mom Luby may not necessarily have the right answer for. It is possible that Hunter is suggesting that with bureaucracy comes
difficulty. Technically Mom Luby is entitled to nothing from the welfare office as neither Elijah nor Pudding are her children.
However, Hunter might be suggesting that some things like parentage should be overlooked if an individual is doing the job of a
parent. As Mom Luby is doing. Life would be far more difficult for Elijah and Pudding without Mom Luby’s influence in their lives
and it would cost the government very little to bend their rules a little. Miss Rushmore also appears to be judging Mom Luby by her
extracurricular activities when the reality is she is a poor woman who is providing a service to other poor people. It is as though there
is a disconnect between Miss Rushmore and Mom Luby. With Miss Rushmore being in disbelief as to how Mom Luby lives her life.

Throughout the story Mom Luby is honest. With the exception of her being Elijah and Pudding’s mother. She does not hide anything
from Miss Rushmore. When the reality is she probably should. This may be important as it could suggest that Mom Luby is somewhat
innocent. It could also suggest that Mom Luby and Miss Rushmore live two entirely different lives. With Hunter symbolically
suggesting that the government (or Miss Rushmore) have no idea how people live their lives. It may also be case that Hunter is
comparing both traditional and modern roles. Mom Luby knows how to do a lot of things however she is qualified to do none. That is
if you take qualification to mean a piece of paper from a university or a government agency. If anything Mom Luby has learnt to do
things from those who went before her. When there was no need for academic qualifications. Something which Miss Rushmore
frowns upon. The list of forms that Mom Luby is told to fill out may also have some symbolic significance as Hunter could again be
placing a spotlight on just how burdensome bureaucracy is to an individual. Not only has Mom Luby got to fill out the forms but she
has to go to different buildings to fill out each form.

It is as though there are two sides of life in play in the story. The practical life of Mom Luby who carries on despite the difficulties she
may incur and the impractical world of Miss Rushmore. It is also interesting that Miss Rushmore is in shock after she spends her day
with Mom Luby. It is as though she can’t believe that Mom Luby does so much and is not qualified to do what she does. Without
knowing it Mom Luby is breaking all the rules. Something that may be alien to Miss Rushmore. Who at times in the story is as rigid in
her beliefs as she is in her appearance. It might also be a case that life will not change for Mom Luby. She has no intention of filling
out all the forms and Miss Rushmore does not appear to be at the type of woman who will bend the rules for Mom Luby. Even if she
is drinking illegally in Mom Luby’s back room. At the end of the story the reader realises that neither Mom Luby nor Miss Rushmore
are going to change their ways with Mom Luby prepared to continue living her life without the assistance of the government.

To Da-duh, in Memoriam
In To Da-duh, in Memoriam by Paule Marshall we have the theme of conflict, connection, confidence, change, acceptance and pride.
Narrated in the first person by an unnamed female narrator the story is a memory piece and after reading the story the reader realises
that Marshall may be exploring the theme of conflict. Not only is there a sense of conflict between the narrator and Da-duh but both
their worlds are in contrast to one another. The narrator is from New York City (urban) while Da-duh lives in St. Thomas, Barbados
(rural). It is as though both the narrator’s world and Da-duh’s world are in conflict with one another. Something that is noticeable
when the reader realises that Da-duh thinks that the narrator may be lying about New York. It is as though Da-duh cannot imagine
what it is like in New York. She has nothing in Barbados to compare it too. If anything the narrator is opening Da-duh’s mind. Which
is somewhat ironic considering that she is the younger of the two. Usually one expects a young person to learn from their elders.
However, this is not necessarily the case in the story. Both characters take something from the other. Though the narrator does not
realise this till the end of the story.

It might also be important that the narrator and Da-duh spend so much time together as symbolically Marshall may be exploring the
theme of connection. Da-duh is the oldest of her family while the narrator is the youngest of her family. Despite this there is a sense
that both are connected even if Da-duh has no understanding of what life might be like in New York for the narrator. It is also
noticeable that both Da-duh and the narrator are confident people. Something which may be important as it heightens the sense of
conflict that may exist between both characters. With neither character giving the other an inch. Something that is noticeable by the
fact that Da-duh looks into the narrator’s face to see if she is lying when the narrator is talking about New York. Both characters are
also proud of where they come from. Particularly Da-duh. To her Barbados is the world. She cannot imagine a life outside of
Barbados. If anything Da-duh also regrets the introduction of machinery. It is as though a moment in time has been changed due to
new technology coming to Barbados.

It might also be case the Marshall is suggesting that socially both Da-duh and the narrator are different. The incident with the narrator
beating up the white girl because she spoke negatively to the narrator is something that is foreign to Da-duh. While the narrator would
see herself as being a white person’s equal. Da-duh would not. If anything Da-duh believes in a racial hierarchy with white people
being superior to black people. Which may suggest that the confidence that the narrator shows throughout the story is not mirrored by
Da-duh’s beliefs. Similarly, the narrator embraces technology while Da-duh has difficulty accepting that times have changed. She
does not believe that technology can have its benefits. This could be important as symbolically Marshall may be using the advances in
technology over Da-duh’s life to highlight further the sense of distance that exists between both Da-duh’s and the narrator’s world.
Da-duh cannot accept technology while it has been part and parcel of the narrator’s life so it is easier for her to accept it. However,
despite the differences between Da-duh’s world and the narrator’s world both seem to enjoy each other’s company.

The end of the story is also interesting as the reader senses that after Da-duh has died and the narrator has grown up. She cannot forget
her time with Da-duh. Something that becomes clearer to the narrator when she isolates herself in her apartment and regrets the fact
that there are machines downstairs which disturb her while she is painting. It is as though the narrator longs for the simplicity that was
Da-duh’s life. She may not have understood Da-duh when she was a nine-year-old girl but as a woman she appears to have a deeper
appreciation for how Da-duh lived her life. Which may be the point that Marshall is attempting to make. She may be suggesting that
when an individual is young as the narrator was when she met Da-duh. They might not fully understand their experiences or the
benefits of their experiences with their elders. When the narrator first met Da-duh her questions were similar to challenges to the
narrator. Rather than understanding or appreciating the life Da-duh lived. The narrator defended her own world without really looking
at the beauty of Da-duh’s world. To the narrator Da-duh’s world was a world that was lost in time. The opposite to her own world.
However, in adulthood the narrator learnt to appreciate Da-duh’s world and life. Realising that in reality they may not be that different
from each other.