The symbolism of love
Michael's mother is a symbol of true love. Michael's mother lives with Michael's father in the same house. The violent husband violates her rights, but she stays put for the sake of her son. Michael's mother goes through similar abuse as Michael from his father, but she is not going anywhere because she wants to be close to her son.
Michael’s father
Michael's father is a symbol of irresponsible parenting. The reader learns that Michael's father is an alcoholic and abusive man, which subjects the young boy to misery. Michael is psychologically affected, and this impacts negatively on his growth.
Fitzroy streets
The Fitzroy streets symbolize a violent modern city that is unsafe for young children. Michael often goes to Fitzroy streets and fights it more insecure than home. The author is tactical in reminding readers that the concept of green and safe cities is mythical in reality. Therefore, parents must always ensure their children are safe whenever they visit the city streets.
Ancient cities
The author uses ancient cities such as Fitzroy in the text to symbolize prosperity. Before the wave of modernity in the 1960s, Fitzroy was viewed as the center of prosperity because it was safe and provided many opportunities for people who wanted to better their lives. Unfortunately, things started changing with the wave of modernity when the cities began experiencing violence, drug abuse, and alcoholism.
Michael
Michael represents the challenges children go through due to faulty parenting. When parents become irresponsible, children lack security, and they fail to access basic education, food, and clothing. Michael's father only thinks of drinking alcohol, and when he comes home, he abuses Michael, which negatively impacts his growth. Consequently, Michael emblems the painful experiences children go through while growing up under poor parenting.
