In a child’s innocent eyes, adults have the capability to influence a child’s life in a positive or negative way through their actions. In the short story “The Rocking-Horse Winner” by D.H Lawrence, it is proven that the parental figures Hester, Uncle Oscar, and Bassett affected Paul’s mentality.
First and foremost, Paul’s mother Hester greatly affected his life. He is influenced by a materialistic mother who is haunted with the never-ending need for money. As a result, it left her void of love towards anything or anyone other than money, which left her children, primarily her son Paul, feeling unloved and neglected. He tries to satisfy his mother’s desire for money in hopes that she will love him back. During this period of time, Paul embarks …show more content…
He had a big impact on Paul as he was the only positive parental figure in his life. Bassett is the only adult in the story who treats Paul with respect. He takes what Paul says seriously, follows his instructions on how to bet on the horses, and keeps the boy's winnings safely hidden away for him. Bassett is portrayed as the closest thing Paul has to a friend, “We're partners. We've been partners from the first” (Lawrence 23). Although it was basset whom introduced Paul to horse betting, he always took care of the boy and never took advantage of his gift. He keeps Paul's secret because of the mutual respect which he has developed with the boy. Paul is obviously very taken by Bassett and values him more than just a friend, but a partner. Even when introducing his uncle to his gift, Paul insists that Oscar, "You won't let it go any further,”(lawrence 23), because he promised Bassett. Paul values his relationship with Bassett because he is the only adult Paul is subjected to that offers him the love and affection he desires. Therefore, Bassett affected Paul in a positive way.
In conclusion, in the short story “The Rocking-Horse Winner” by D.H Lawrence, it is proven that the parental figures Hester, Uncle Oscar, and Bassett affected Paul’s mentality. Family may seem to be good role models, but do not be fooled by their social positions. Cruel people can take many
First and foremost, Paul’s mother Hester greatly affected his life. He is influenced by a materialistic mother who is haunted with the never-ending need for money. As a result, it left her void of love towards anything or anyone other than money, which left her children, primarily her son Paul, feeling unloved and neglected. He tries to satisfy his mother’s desire for money in hopes that she will love him back. During this period of time, Paul embarks …show more content…
He had a big impact on Paul as he was the only positive parental figure in his life. Bassett is the only adult in the story who treats Paul with respect. He takes what Paul says seriously, follows his instructions on how to bet on the horses, and keeps the boy's winnings safely hidden away for him. Bassett is portrayed as the closest thing Paul has to a friend, “We're partners. We've been partners from the first” (Lawrence 23). Although it was basset whom introduced Paul to horse betting, he always took care of the boy and never took advantage of his gift. He keeps Paul's secret because of the mutual respect which he has developed with the boy. Paul is obviously very taken by Bassett and values him more than just a friend, but a partner. Even when introducing his uncle to his gift, Paul insists that Oscar, "You won't let it go any further,”(lawrence 23), because he promised Bassett. Paul values his relationship with Bassett because he is the only adult Paul is subjected to that offers him the love and affection he desires. Therefore, Bassett affected Paul in a positive way.
In conclusion, in the short story “The Rocking-Horse Winner” by D.H Lawrence, it is proven that the parental figures Hester, Uncle Oscar, and Bassett affected Paul’s mentality. Family may seem to be good role models, but do not be fooled by their social positions. Cruel people can take many