Big Books of Spring
The Life and Death of Harriett Frean

Questions About The Life and Death of Harriett Frean

by May Sinclair

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Answered Questions (1)

What about the "secret" behind "the dirty blue palings"? There was a deeper, darker message in this short piece that I haven't picked up in the comments/discussions I've read.
Joel A woman, or young girl, had been sexually assaulted "behind the dirty blue palings".

As Clari mentions in their answer, for Harriett it becomes all ti…moreA woman, or young girl, had been sexually assaulted "behind the dirty blue palings".

As Clari mentions in their answer, for Harriett it becomes all tied in with her fears of sexuality and maturity. I don't get the impression Harriett was assaulted herself, however - when Connie finally tells her what had gone on behind the palings, that she'd only been able to pick up vague hints about before, she seems shocked and surprised,

She also ends up tying it in with the Hancocks in general in her mind, with Connie's fondness for dirty jokes and stories, and the way her parents view Mr. Hancock as common and vulgar. (less)
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