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LitCourse 3
How to Read: Finding meaning 
9

 

Evaluating Literature—character

Characterization is brilliantly handled in this very short story. We come to know three characters rather well —including the mother, who isn't even present.

Father—spontaneous (loves jazz), risk-taker, disregards rules (removes road barrier).
Son—fears risk, orderly (clothes on numbered hangers), plans ahead (asks for homework in advance).
Mother—angry (perhaps justified), orderly, perfectionist (dinner candles waiting to be lit).