“Little Boy Crying” by Mervyn Morris Essay

In the first stanza, the boy had a tantrum, splashing his evident feet around a puddle. The father doesnt approve of this, and struck(s) a quick slap across his sons face. However, the father refuses to show any signs of wrong or sorrow for what he has done. The father is regretful but thinks it is to a greater extent important for his sons development that he remains staunch. The boy is hold for his father to apologise, but his father refuses to give in, because he doesnt want to give his son the idea that he can get away with more incidents like this. This gives the impression of a boy who knows the effect he has on his father, and waits for signs that he is weakening.The father realises that there is an inner evil in his son which require controlling. There is frequent use of onomatopoeia such as when he describes his son as an ogre, despite his size. The boy still wants revenge on his parent, accept the latter thinks nothing of him. Since the boy has thoughts of wanting reve nge, the punishment viewed in this light come outs to be justified.The father hopes in time, his son will understand the need for discipline, and this is uttered through the words but dare not ruin the lessons you should learn. This occasion is also tough for the father because he is hiding his inner substance of uncertainty and suffering behind that mask, after slapping the boy. The father is not repent he is a man who follows absolute values. He doesnt seem to comprehend that mercy is more powerful than judging to the letter of the law.The use of contrast, such as the boys slack behaviour and his fathers firmness, helps add depth to the relationship between the boy and the parent. Other examples of contrast include the boys diminutive nature and powerful influence over his father, the vulnerability of his character and cunning, evil and shrewd mind. It is incredible to understand that this three year old possesses such qualities.