Through the Tunnel
by Doris Lessing
Point of view –
3rd person Omniscient: We know everyone’s
thoughts and feelings.
–
Internal:
Jerry – Should he set off on his own?
Mother – Protect him or give him
independence?
Conflict

Internal:


Jerry – Should he set off on his own?
Mother – Protect him or give him
independence?
Mood
How do you feel about the expressions
“big, dark rock, heavy blue dark shapes,
black wall of rock looming at him…”?
Answer: It makes this experience more
frightening, foreboding, almost
forbidden.
Characterization
What can you tell about Jerry from his
funny actions?
Answer: He wants to be accepted by
these older boys, maybe act a little
older. He also wants to cover up his
failure by poking fun at himself.
Simile
A Simile is a comparison that uses “Like”
or “As”
Personification


–“fanged and angry boulders”
How does this description make you
imagine the rock?
Metaphor

“Wall of Rock” –How does this
description make you imagine the rock?
Setting


Beach resort
Underwater tunnel through the rocks
under a cliff
Symbol
“the hole”
What does the hole symbolize?
What does his journey mean
on a symbolic level?

The journey from boyhood to manhood,
a psychological breakthrough
(conquering his fears)
Characterization
Jerry
“But even after he had made the
decision…”
What do you think of Jerry now?
Determined, brave, courageous…
Imagery
“Soon he was clear inside…”
Describe what Jerry is experiencing
during this journey.
Climax
He makes it through the tunnel and rests
afterward.
Idiom
lighting up”
Her eyes are becoming cheerful and
animated.
Theme
The Theme is:
A passage to or breakthrough into something
new.
Jerry makes several breakthroughs:
1. He learns to hold his breath.
2. He overcomes fear.
3. He swims through the tunnel.
4. He becomes more confident.