Dad - Steve Curren

Question 1

What is the anomaly and paradox in Dad’s character?

Answer 1

His is not a good father. This violent behaviour contradicts the parental responsibilities and care that his expected of him; as he is a cruel and abusive father

Question 2

What are the inconsistencies of Dad’s behaviour?

Answer 2

He is aggressive and abusive throughout the novel, however certain moments reveal him as caring towards his kids, particularly Miles when he reveals signs of care and affection towards him, “‘You’re my son’”.

Question 3

What techniques are in, “‘You’re my son’”?

Answer 3

High modality, and a confessional tone

Question 4

Scene: When Dad breaks Joe’s arm.
What does this scene reveal about Dad?

Answer 4

• Reveals Dad’s instability, and vulgar actions, contributing the the anomaly of his characterisation.
• Shows Dad as a careless father
• Further highlights the dysfunction in the Curren home as it is revealed by Miles that Joe moves out the next day

Question 5

When Dad breaks Joes arm he says, ““‘You’re just like him. You’re just like him’. Then he threw Joe had across the room”
What techniques are in the quote?

Answer 5

Repetition of ‘You’re just like him’, and the anaphora of ‘You’re’.

Question 6

Dad’s encouragement and carelessness when Miles and Harry and harassed by Jeff reveal his negligence and dysfunction as a father. This is further revealed after the event where Dad “still didn’t look at Miles. At the bandages on his head, at his eye”
What does his quote revealed about Dad?

Answer 6

• The visual imagery highlights the Dad’s negligence and his lack of responsibility as a father
• The repetition of ‘at’ reflects the impacts of family dysfunction in the home as Miles’ obtains multiple injuries from his own father; thus alluding to the paradox and anomalies of Dad.