Like a teenager’s selfish desire to obtain status through possessions, Paul’s mother demonstrates the same immature importance of material objects and outward appearance in D.H Lawrence’s short story “The Rocking-Horse Winner.” This wonderful depiction of the destructive nature of materialism sets an example for all. As the mother’s wanting exceeds the family’s income her selfishness places a strain on the entire household, ultimately leading to disastrous consequences.
Young Paul desires the love of a cold and distant mother and is determined to find the luck that his mother insists their family lacks. According to her, luck leads to money and their household never seems to have enough to suit her. Paul recognizes the anxiety as the house seems to whisper “there must be more money.” He desperately rides his rocking horse until a voice tells him the winner of the local horse derby. He then bets money hoping to gain money to satisfy his mother and in return gain her love. With more money, the whisper in the house becomes louder and louder as his mother spends it all. In the end Paul rides so long and hard to find a winner that he dies, leaving his family with 80,000 pounds. Paul’s last words: “Mother, did I ever tell you? I am lucky!”
What do I need to add to this review?
I'm not sure what to do in the conclusion.
I think she was very selfish and ultimately her desire for possessions put too much pressure on the household--and her family paid an unimaginable price.
"...Paul’s mother demonstrates the same immature importance of material objects and outward appearance..."
This sentence bothers me. I know what you are saying, but I think "importance" is the problem. How does one demonstrate importance. It doesn't quite work. Try this: Paul's mother demonstrates the same immature emphasis on the importance...
You have a good intro, and you have written a good summary of the story. Now you need to write about YOUR REACTIONS to this story -- probably concentrating on the actions of only one character (maybe two). What do YOU THINK? WHY?
In the conclusion of your review, you can briefly summarize the main points you have discussed so far:
In D.H. Lawrence's short story "The Rocking-Horse Winner," the character of Paul's mother exemplifies the destructive nature of materialism and the obsession with outward appearance. Her selfish desire for possessions places an enormous strain on the entire household, eventually leading to tragic consequences.
Then, you can provide a final statement that reflects on the significance of this depiction of materialism and its impact on the characters:
This powerful portrayal of the mother's selfishness serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the detrimental effects of materialistic desires. It highlights the way in which the pursuit of material possessions can cause immense harm to individuals and their relationships, ultimately leading to a devastating loss. "The Rocking-Horse Winner" serves as a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be achieved through the acquisition of material wealth, but rather through genuine human connection and a balance between inward contentment and outward circumstances.