We did not discuss anything about Bevel/Harry’s parents in class today and I had a few questions about them. I was extremely interested in his mother because she sometimes has the outward appearance of acting like a respectable mother even though she seems disinterested for the most part. When Mrs. Connin brings the child home, his mother acts as many mothers might act—she asks him what he did during the day, takes off his jacket for him, and questions him about the bible she finds in his jacket. However, when his mother comes into his room to ‘wish him goodnight,” she acts very strangely. It is especially odd that she whispers when asking him what the preacher said about her. She then accuses her son of telling lies about her. This self-centered conversation borders on paranoia.
I was wondering what you guys thought about her talking like this to her son. Also, she does not reply to Bevel/Harry’s remarks about ‘counting’. I find it interesting how she does not reply to his statement, acting to discount what he has said immediately and with finality. I was also interested in O’Conner’s focus on the shapes that his mother creates…she is almost portrayed as fleeting or inhuman. Her body is described as a silhouette that “tiptoed lightly,” (170) her face is described as a “pale oval,” (171) and when she leaves only the outline of her figure is described. Let me know what you guys think. I wonder if O’Conner is commenting on the effects of alcohol on her presence.
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I found Bevel’s mother somewhat confusing as well. At times she is portrayed as an alcoholic and neglectful mother but then there are moments when her motherly instincts kick in. Right before she leaves Bevel his sleep “she hung over him an instant and brushed her lips against his forehead” (O’Connor 168). This is a very loving and maternal thing to do. Right before she does this she questions what lies he has told about her today; perhaps she realizes that this is a ridiculous question to ask and therefore gives up. She lowers him to his pillow and kisses his forehead realizing that he is simply a child and who would ever believe such a young boy.
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