Norm and Ahmed
Norm and Ahmed are a metaphorical representation of implicit racism in Australian society at this time this play was written. Norm harbors clear feelings of bitterness and hostility towards Ahmed, which is uncomfortable to watch on the stage.
Violence
Norm's shocking act of violence towards Ahmed at the end of the play is a metaphor for the hidden hostilities and bitterness at the heart of society. Norm dominates the conversation, speaking much more than Ahmed, but does this in order to hide his own feelings of insecurity. As the play goes on, Norm's feelings culminate, resulting in the violence we see at the end of the play.
"Rare as a pregnant nun"
When talking about his father's criminal record, Norm says that what his father did is now "rare as a pregnant nun". This simile is somewhat obscene and is therefore appropriate for Norm to use in this situation.
