Saturday, October 12, 2013

What are two examples of symbolism that represents greed and its destructive consequences in "The Rocking-Horse Winner"?

In D.H. Lawrence’s The Rocking-Horse Winner, the symbols
of the rocking horse and the whispering are two important symbols that represent greed
in the story.  In his short story, Lawrence develops themes such as greed and
materialism in society.  For example, Paul is a child who is taking on the financial
responsibilities of an adult.  In retrospect, Paul’s mother should have been caring for
her family’s financial well being instead of wasting money on trivial things.  Because
of her greed, she allows her child to take on this adult role.  When Paul rides on his
rocking-horse, he is able to magically know the winners of the upcoming horse races. 
His mother then allows her young child to gamble in order to gain more money. It is also
important to note that Paul becomes exhausted and weak after his riding, but this does
not stop his mother’s encouragement of the act.  Paul, the innocent young child, only
wants to be loved and accepted by his mother.  Unfortunately, this never really
happens.  She remains indifferent toward her child throughout the
story.


In addition, the whispering in the house is another
symbol that helps to develop the theme of greed.  There are constant whispers in the
house saying that “there must be more money!”.  This constant voice emphasises the
mother’s passion and drive for more money.  These voices are also what drive Paul to
keep trying to earn money in order to gain his mother’s love and acceptance.  Regardless
of Paul’s efforts, at the end, he literally “rides himself” to death.  What’s even more
tragic is that his mother, even after his death, remains
indifferent. 

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