Leaving behind & Loneliness
Self-esteem
Here are quotes which support these themes:
Family and Relationships:
‘To her we are not separate people. Over here, we have become a single unit known as all of you’. (page 28)
This quote relates to the theme of family and relationships. The profound barrier between Niang’s biological children and step-children is described through the different treatment of the two groups, with Niang’s ‘real’ children favoured immensely.
‘In no time at all huge sister went over to the other side. I knew Niang abhorrent me and despisedmy aunt.’ (page 59)
This quote relates to the theme of family and relationships. The reader feels disgust and sadness for Adeline, and pity for her as Niang’s despise for her tears her and her siblings apart by bringing Huge Sister over to ‘their side’.
Leaving behind & Loneliness:
‘One by one they were greeted and led away by nervous mothers. Nobody came for me.’ (page 30)
This quote relates to the theme of leaving behind and loneliness. The reader pities Adeline and it is simple to empathise with her as she watches ass her friends taken from school with loving mothers and it is left alone to ponder her misfortune.
‘I took the duckling to my heart… it reassured me to know I was needed.’ (page 84)
This quote relates to the theme of leaving behind and loneliness. The duckling made Adeline feel as though she was not completely worthless and was needed. This was a change for Adeline.
Self-esteem:
‘If you had not been born, Mama would still be alive. She died because of you. You are terrible luck.’ (page 3)
This quote relates to the theme of self-esteem. The reader feels very wretched for Adeline and it is simple to see why she does not feel excellent in this area herself and carries guilt if she is constantly oral to this way.
‘I was overjoyed! Not only had Niang finally acknowledged me, she had agreed me a task to go!’ (page 169)
This quote relates to the theme of self-esteem. Adeline’s feelings are always unnatural by her parents’ and are altered depending on the way her parents answer towards her. She has lived in a dark shadow all her life, and is well immune to life ignored and forgotten. When her parents acknowledge her presence, or even say a few harmless words to her, she feels immensely pleased.
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