đź’ˇ Theme: Survival (inc. Neglect, Loss, Violence) Flashcards
State a quotation that supports the following statement:
De Waal explores ideas about survival through Leon’s tendency to steal as a result of an erratic childhood.
“Everyone steals from me.” + motif of stealing
Symbolic of his loss
“His mum doesn’tnotice.”
Leon attempts to assert control in environments impossible to regulate and to punish others by taking from them as he’s been stolen from, through stealing.
State a quotation that supports the following statement:
De Waal explores ideas about survival through the protagonist’s, Leon, unconventional and erratic upbringing, resulting in his denied right to a childhood.
“I’m the one who looks after the baby when mums not there.”
Loss of childhood incomes as Leon had to grow up quickly in order to care for Jake. “Has a system”
State a quotation that supports the following statement:
Jake’s adoption is a critical turning point for Leon’s rage and anger, as he struggles to cope with yet another change is his young life.
“The end of the pen is like a little metal knife… it could be dangerous and it could hurt someone… Black power. From Leon.” (Towards Earring)
State a quotation that supports the following statement:
De Waal explores ideas about survival by emphasising the loss Leon experiences as a result of Jake’s adoption.
“The empty sound in the house is louder than Jake crying for his bottle.”
Jake is adopted but Leon isn’t- Leon suffers from the lack of a fraternal bond in his life after it had been so integral to his identity.
State a quotation that supports the following statement:
De Waal explores ideas about survival by emphasising the emotional turmoil between wanting to fight for your rights and desiring peace, a conflict demonstrated by the character of Tufty.
“Spit comes out of his mouth like a wild dog… “He can’t breathe!” “
What is Kit de Waals message about the foster care system?
The foster care system is ultimately flawed and discriminatory towards certain groups. Within the novel, the system does not address or meet Leon’s needs, perhaps a comment on the poor quality of safeguarding procedures and childcare in the 1980s.
