Explore language and literary devices 1. The boy as the narrator (teller of the story) does not take the side of his mother or his father. He just reports what they say and do. a) Do you think the story as a whole supports the mother's view or the father's view? Give reasons to support your answer. b) How would the story have been different if it had been told by an adult, such as the father or mother? c) Why do you think the author chooses a twelve-year-old boy to tell the story? 2. Why do you think the title of the story is "Loyalties" and not "Loyalty"?

To explore the language and literary devices in the context of the questions you've posed, let's break down each question and provide a detailed analysis. ### 1. The Boy as the Narrator #### a) Do you think the story as a whole supports the mother's view or the father's view? Give reasons to support your answer. The story's neutrality in the boy's narration suggests that it does not explicitly favor either the mother's or the father's perspective. The boy's role as an observer allows readers to interpret the events and emotions without bias. - **Supporting the Mother's View**: If the narrative highlights the mother's struggles, her emotional responses, and her motivations, it may evoke sympathy for her position. For instance, if her sacrifices and challenges are emphasized, readers might lean towards her viewpoint. - **Supporting the Father's View**: Conversely, if the father is portrayed as a figure of authority who is trying to maintain stability or if his actions are depicted as protective, the narrative could support his perspective. Ultimately, the story's balance allows readers to form their own opinions based on the interactions and conflicts presented, making it a rich ground for discussion. #### b) How would the story have been different if it had been told by an adult, such as the father or mother? If the story were narrated by an adult, the tone and perspective would likely shift significantly: - **Subjectivity**: An adult narrator would bring personal biases and emotions into the narrative, potentially skewing the portrayal of events. The father might justify his actions with rationalizations, while the mother might express her feelings of betrayal or hurt more explicitly. - **Complexity of Emotions**: Adults might reflect on their past experiences and how they shape their current decisions, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. This could lead to a more nuanced understanding of the conflict but might also detract from the innocence and straightforwardness of a child's perspective. - **Themes of Responsibility**: An adult narrator might focus more on themes of responsibility, duty, and the consequences of their actions, whereas a child's perspective might center on feelings of confusion, loyalty, and the desire for harmony. #### c) Why do you think the author chooses a twelve-year-old boy to tell the story? Choosing a twelve-year-old boy as the narrator serves several purposes: - **Innocence and Naivety**: A child’s perspective often embodies innocence and a lack of preconceived notions about adult relationships. This allows readers to see the events unfold without the weight of adult cynicism or bias. - **Emotional Resonance**: Children often experience emotions more intensely and directly. The boy's observations can evoke empathy from the reader, as they relate to his confusion and desire for loyalty amidst conflict. - **Symbol of Loyalty**: The age of twelve is often seen as a transitional period where children begin to understand complex social dynamics. The boy's struggle to navigate his loyalties to both parents reflects the broader theme of the story, making him a fitting narrator. ### 2. Why do you think the title of the story is "Loyalties" and not "Loyalty"? The title "Loyalties" suggests a multiplicity of allegiances and the complexity of relationships, rather than a singular concept of loyalty. Here are some reasons for this choice: - **Multiple Perspectives**: The plural form indicates that there are various loyalties at play—between the boy and each parent, as well as the conflicting loyalties that arise from their differing views and actions. - **Conflict and Complexity**: "Loyalties" implies that the characters are navigating a web of relationships and obligations, highlighting the tension and conflict that can arise when loyalties are tested. - **Dynamic Nature of Relationships**: The use of the plural form suggests that loyalties can change and evolve over time, reflecting the fluid nature of human relationships and the challenges of maintaining them. In summary, the title encapsulates the central theme of the story, emphasizing the complexity and multifaceted nature of loyalty in familial relationships.