Characters - Keith Hayward Flashcards
“I reason slowly, so that Keith can overtake me and resume full control of operation.” (Ch5p 91)
Shows that Keith is not very bright but Stephen happy for him to feel superior.
‘Every moment … is a further test of his strength, a further demonstration of his heroism.” (Ch 5 p 95)
Stephen builds up Keith in his own mind even as he undermines himself.
Keith’s toys were, “ all of them in actual working condition.” (Ch2 p18)
This is not normal for a child and this order provides another sinister indication of the abusive regime under which he lives. Everything on the surface looks immaculate but underneath a very unpleasant reality.
His smile, “as sharp as the edge of a sharpened blade.” (Ch 5 p98)
Keith already taking on some of his father’s mannerisms showing his disapproval of Stephen with a dropping of the eyelids - or a smile.
“He’s so stuck up. Everyone except you really hates him. “ (Ch 5p99)
Barbara Berrill told Stephen what the other kids think of Keith.
“Without me there is no one for him to be braver than.” (Ch6p125)
Stephen is aware that Keith needs him in order to be able to shine.
“old bean”
Keith copies this language from his father. Sadistic use of seemingly polite language to dominate.
“We’re socially colour-coded for ease of reference.” (Ch 2 p15)
S understands his lower social status in close. Colour are symbolic - colour on the school belts. Yellow and black good and Green and black - wrong school
“He was the officer corps in our two-man army. I was the Other Ranks - and grateful to be so.” (CH2 p16)
K &S have a dominant and submissive relationship.
“One single heroic deed, to lay at Keith’s feet in the morning.” (Ch 6 p114)
When Stephen planning to go out in night on own. Shows Stephen’s struggle to be a hero and please Keith, laying it at his feet like an offering at the feet of a God.
