My Polish Teacher's Tie Flashcards
“I wear a uniform”
Opening with this short declarative statement suggests that people have judged Carla in the past for this, making her feel as though this is the most important aspect of herself.
“very keen on fairness, we are, here”
This sarcastic statement highlights the flaws still apparent in society - although it seems on a surface level that equality is rife, in reality discrimination is still present.
“Knot of teachers”
The connected unity of “knot” suggests an almost clique-like group that is virtually impossible to enter. It is because of this that Carla feels so isolated.
“a terribly hopeful tie”
This explanatory remark reveals the nature of our society as a whole which opposes anything which dares to stand out or go against the norm in any way. Through this, Dunmore criticises the monotonous uniformity of society, implying through the juxtaposition of “terribly hopeful” that the only way we can hope to make our world a better place is by daring to stand out.
“a smile lit his eyes and ran to his mouth”
The genuine joy connoted by this description contrasts with the resentful attitude of the headmaster towards Carla. By referencing Stephan’s “eyes”, Dunmore highlights the sincerity of his pleasure - revealing once more the ironic hierarchy of society.
“bumbled round us flapping his papers”
This vastly contrasts with the headmaster’s earlier control and feeling of superiority. He seems to have lost all of his earlier dominance and authority, no longer being able to look down on those who he had previously deemed as inferior to himself.
“A better country”
By concluding with this positive image, Dunmore gives the story a sense of hope that things can change for the better.
