Themes: Sibling Relationships
At the beginning of the story, Squeaky makes it clear that looking after Raymond is both a chore and a duty for her. She does not have to get a part-time job or help out around the house, because her time is occupied in caring for her big brother. Apart from this, she feels obliged to protect Raymond’s honor as a matter of personal and family prestige. If anyone insults his intelligence or the size of his head, she is ready to knock them down, as she repeatedly tells the reader.
Although she is protective of her brother, Squeaky shows no affection for him until the end of the story, after she sees him running. This is when it finally occurs to her to think of Raymond as a person in his own right and consider what his life must be like. Squeaky reflects that she has an impressive reputation and a room full of trophies celebrating her victories: “But what has Raymond got to call his own?”
By the time Raymond jumps down from the fence and comes to see his sister, she is quite literally jumping for joy, excited to think of the life she will share with Raymond from this point on, helping him and training him to run. There have been various hints throughout the narrative that Raymond loves and respects Squeaky. He continually imitates her, breathing in counts of seven at the dinner table as he emulates her training regime. However, it is only when he runs alongside her that she notices this devotion and begins to reciprocate.
Expert Q&A
What decision does Squeaky make for Raymond at the end of "Raymond's Run" and why?
At the end of "Raymond's Run," Squeaky decides to coach her brother Raymond after realizing his potential as a runner. Observing Raymond keeping up with her during a race, she envisions him as a champion she can support. This decision marks a shift in her perspective, recognizing Raymond not just as her disabled brother but as someone with a promising future. Squeaky also resolves to improve herself as a student and friend.
What are examples of Squeaky showing empathy in "Raymond's Run"?
Squeaky shows empathy in "Raymond's Run" by understanding and protecting her brother Raymond. She defends him against anyone who demeans him and takes over his care to ensure his safety. Additionally, she empathizes with her competitors, especially after the race, acknowledging Gretchen's talent and effort without malice. Squeaky also apologizes to neighbors when Raymond disrupts their activities, showing her consideration for their feelings.
What does the narrator in "Raymond's Run" reveal about her family and her responsibility towards it?
The narrator, Squeaky, reveals that her family operates with distinct roles: her mother manages the household, her brother George runs errands, and her father handles other tasks. Squeaky's primary responsibility is caring for her older brother Raymond, who has a mental and physical disability. Despite the challenges, Squeaky takes her role seriously, protecting Raymond from others' comments and ensuring his well-being, demonstrating her commitment to her family duties.
In "Raymond's Run," how does Squeaky demonstrate care for her family and neighborhood?
Squeaky, in "Raymond's Run," demonstrates care for her family and neighborhood by protecting her brother Raymond and running to bring pride to her community. She defends Raymond, who is mentally challenged, from ridicule and considers training him in running, prioritizing his needs over her own achievements. Her race victories allow her neighborhood to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, reflecting her commitment to her community's morale and well-being.
What important lesson does Squeaky learn from her brother in "Raymond's Run"?
In "Raymond's Run," Squeaky learns from her brother, Raymond, about the importance of forming genuine relationships. Initially focused on winning the race, she realizes that helping Raymond, who may have a developmental disorder, is more valuable. This insight leads her to rethink her competitive nature and antagonistic relationships, particularly with Gretchen. By the end, Squeaky embraces mutual respect and cooperation over rivalry, recognizing the societal pressures that shape these dynamics.
Why does Squeaky lose interest in the race's outcome after observing Raymond in "Raymond's Run"?
Squeaky loses interest in the race's outcome after observing Raymond because she realizes the joy her brother experiences from running is more important than winning. Her perspective shifts from a competitive focus to valuing her brother's happiness and potential. This moment allows her to see a future where she can support Raymond as a coach, placing less emphasis on her personal victories and more on his development and enjoyment.
How does Squeaky's revelation about others' talents affect her respect for her brother in "Raymond's Run"?
Squeaky's revelation about others' talents enhances her respect for her brother, Raymond, as she realizes his potential in running. Previously, Squeaky prided herself on her own accomplishments and was protective of Raymond, who has special needs. However, after witnessing Raymond pace her during the race, she sees his unique running style and recognizes him as a "great runner." This new perspective allows Squeaky to envision a closer sibling bond through shared training and running.
How can the girls in "Raymond's Run" show respect when only one wins the race?
In "Raymond's Run," the girls show respect by exhibiting true sportsmanship. Despite only one winning, Hazel and Gretchen compete fairly, without malice, and exchange smiles after the race. This mutual acknowledgment reflects their respect and appreciation for each other's abilities, demonstrating a strong sense of sports ethics. The shared smiles symbolize a newfound respect and recognition that both are winners in their own right, highlighting the admirable quality of sportsmanship.
How do sports and exercise impact Squeaky's relationships with Raymond and Gretchen in "Raymond's Run"?
Sports and exercise bring Squeaky closer to Raymond and Gretchen by giving her something to work on with Raymond and melting away the animosity that she had felt towards Gretchen.
Squeaky and Gretchen's smiles after their confrontation and race
After their confrontation and race, Squeaky and Gretchen's smiles signify mutual respect and the beginning of a new friendship. Despite their rivalry, the race allows them to recognize each other's abilities and potential, leading to a positive change in their relationship.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
