Through the Tunnel

by Doris Lessing

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Themes: Individualism

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Jerry's ability to hold his breath symbolizes his assertion of independence. He practices until he can remain underwater for several minutes. By distancing himself from his mother, Jerry embarks on a journey of self-exploration and personal challenge. He learns to navigate the dangerous tunnel on his own, without assistance from the local boys, highlighting his independence. While he initially seeks attention, Jerry later conceals his bloody nose from his mother, ensuring that he alone is aware of the risks he has undertaken. He showcases his maturity through his dedication, courage, and patience, expressing it in a traditionally masculine manner: through physical challenges.

Expert Q&A

Why does Jerry prefer the wild bay over the familiar beach?

The narrator describes the wonderful feeling of being on his own and in control. Jerry is a young boy who loves playing in the water, whether it's the sea or a river. He is with his mother. It is summer, and they are having fun when they arrive at their usual beach by train. It is Jerry's favorite place; he knows how to get there from school, so it is familiar to him. They get tickets for a day at the beach from a man who works there and goes along the beach selling them for a penny each. The tickets are round cardboard discs with numbers on them in blue ink that washes off easily into the sea.

Jerry's internal and external conflicts in "Through the Tunnel."

In "Through the Tunnel," Jerry's internal conflict involves his struggle for independence and self-identity, wanting to prove himself capable and mature. His external conflict is the physical challenge of swimming through an underwater tunnel, which tests his endurance and bravery.

Why does Jerry lose interest in the French boys by the story's end?

Jerry loses interest in the French boys as he realizes he is not yet ready to be like them. Initially craving their acceptance, Jerry sees them as symbols of adulthood, capable of feats he cannot yet achieve. However, after practicing and nearly dying to match their skills, he understands he is not ready to be an adult. By the end, Jerry values his mother's praise over that of the older boys, indicating his acceptance of his current stage in life.

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Themes: Rites of Passage

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Themes: Alienation and Loneliness

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