F is for Family, Fathers, Fidelity

Brief Summary

In this chapter, Terry informs Boy A of his mother’s death.  This news still comes as a shock, despite having known that she was dying from ovarian cancer.  We learn that his mother had continued to visit Jack whilst he was in prison whereas A’s father never visited.  He therefore considered her to be his last link to love.

 

Devastated by the news, Jack cries.  He is comforted by Terry and we see the bond between them strengthening when Terry accompanies Jack to the funeral.  At the funeral, it is clear that any relationship Jack and his father once had, is now deteriorated; they are anxious in each other’s company and the strain of what has happened is too much for them to be able to maintain contact.  Jack later receives a letter from his dad informing him that he has accepted a job abroad.

We also learn more about Terry’s family life in this chapter.  Like Jack, he has had to deal with separation after he learns of his wife’s affair which leads to their divorce.  It is decided that his son, Zeb, should not hear of the reasons behind the divorce so as not to destroy his relationship with his mum.  However, Terry feels that Zeb suspects it was his fault and father and son slowly grow apart.

Things to consider

§       How have Jack’s parents reacted to the crime?  Can you understand each reaction?

§       What role does Jack’s father play in his life and what’s happened to him?

§       Compare the bond between Terry and Jack with the waning bond between Terry and his own son

§       Why does Jack blame himself for this mother’s death?  Why does he compare himself to her cancer?