The book begins with Frank describing to the readers his childhood and how his parents met and got married in New York. He describes his childhood as miserable because he had a drunken father and a strict demanding mother. After giving a background of his childhood Frank then tells the stories of his mother and father's lives before having kids. Malachy McCourt, Frank's father, grew up in Ireland and fought for the IRA. In his work with the IRA he committed a crime and fled to America to escape death. Angela Sheehan, Frank's mother, grew up in a Limerick slum then later emigrated to America where she met Malachy. Soon after meeting him Angela becomes pregnant with Malachy's son and the two plan to get married... Despite their plans of marriage Malachy tried to escape the marriage by fleeing to California but he spent the money for his train ticket on alcohol instead. Frank was the first born and baptized then following him was his brother, Malachy. Soon after Malachy came twin boys named Eugene and Oliver. Angela also later had a daughter named Margaret whom Frank's mother adored but Margeret ended up dieing. Margaret's death sent Angela into a deep state of depression causing her to neglect her children.
This book paints a disturbing picture in my mind. I can almost feel what Frank is going through and I cannot even begin to fathom the stress and hurt Frank must undergo on a daily basis. Having to lose a sister as well as have your mother neglect you for it is a disturbing thought for me. Also having to grow up with a drunken father and a strict demanding mother does not seem to be the ideal childhood for me. After reading this first chapter I cannot help but have pity for Frank and the hard times he must be going through.
No comments:
Post a Comment