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Allusions
Key Examples in Hard Times
Book 1, Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Missed His Tip:
In Book 1, Chapter 6, circus performers Kiddlemister and Childers are trying to explain to Gradgrind and Bounderby why Sissy’s father has lately been dejected at work.
“You may or may not be aware [...] that Jupe has missed his tip very often lately."
“Has–what has he missed?” asked Mr. Gradgrind [...]
“Missed his tip.”
“Offered at the garters four times last night, and never done ‘em once,” said Mister Kiddlemister. “Missed his tip at the banners, too, and was loose in his ponging.”
Related Themes:
Book 1, Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Class and Culture:
When Stephen goes to seek Bounderby’s advice about how to divorce his wife, he puts his request to him very directly. This passage is an example of dialect in the novel:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“I ha’ coom,” Stephen began, raising his eyes from the floor after a moment’s consideration, “to ask you yo’ advice. I need’t overmuch. I were married on Eas’r Monday nineteen year sin, long and dree. She were a young lass–pretty enow–wi’ good accounts of herseln. Well! She went bad–soon. Not along of me. Gonnows I were not a unkind husband to her.”
Related Themes:
