Through The Tunnel

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The Willpower of the Tunnel: A Thematic Analysis of “Through the Tunnel” Doris Lessing, uses the theme “set yourself a goal and work for it” as she wrote “Through the Tunnel.” She did so by using two characters, Jerry, his mom, and the setting. The story tells about how Jerry wants to swim through the tunnel, but has to do work to accomplish his goal. Jerry, the young english boys helps build the theme as he shows determination, hard work and a positive mind set. Jerry obeyed his mother, as he thought “... on the safe beach he thought about it” [the bay]. Finally being able to go to the bay Jerry swims with three boys. One by one “they began diving again and again.” Watching them go Jerry knows he wants to get to the other side also. Taking …show more content…

Like any typical mother, Jerry’s mother worries about him becoming independent. Being a single mother, she isn’t quite ready for Jerry to separate, she shows this by saying “Why darling would you rather not come with me?” Knowing he is following behind she has a little bit of relief, knowing her only child isn’t ready to separate from her. As the next day approaches she knows Jerry would rather go somewhere else than the beach when she says “ Are you tired of the beach, Jerry? Would you like to go somewhere else?” As he tells her he would rather go to the bay, she doesn’t hesitate when she allows him to go to the bay. Wondering to herself she thinks “He’s old enough without me. I must be careful.” Allowing him to get the goggles he wants she lets him go back to the bay again. As the nights come she knows Jerry is overdoing himself by the bloody noses he’s getting. She shows she is caring when she “insists that he comes with her to the beach the next day,” knowing he will obey. Finding out Jerry didn’t ask to go to the bay she trusts him and doesn’t chase after him letting him enjoy himself. Listening to him say how he can hold his breathe and knowing she trusts him by saying ¨Well I shouldn't overdo it. Jerry’s mother has learned to trust Jerry while they were on this

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