The dance starts to become boisterous and the pots and pans start to fall to the floor. While this whole ordeal is going on he is just trying to, "Hang on like death" to his father and not fall over. The mother remains an odd man out to the situation at hand which is why she has a glower countenance. ... To determine the true understanding of this poem the reader must first learn the background of Theodore Roethke's childhood and what all he remembers of his father. ... Otto Roethke accepted his son's choices and let him live them out, but he wouldn't approve of it. ...

• Word Count: 1627
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

These roles are influenced by the individual's cultural and economic background. ... Heaven forbid that little Joey looks like a girl or baby Michelle is mistaken for a boy. ... Industry has been taken out of the home, and large families are no longer economically possible or socially desired. ... These changes involve the new ability of women to break out of the gender roles created for them by a patriarchal society. ... If the house is falling apart she may feel guilty for going to work. ...

• Word Count: 1361
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

Tom takes matter in his own hands when the plans of the FBI fall through and decides that if he is to ever see his son again he needs to take a stand. ... The dirty cop manages to kill his associates and come out as the hero in the end, before the truth of his actions are discovered. ... The investigation drew attention to Tom's financial background and provided Shaker with the incentive to target this particular family. ... And any false move or suspicious activity on their part could blow this plan right out of the water. ...

• Word Count: 2246
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School