When I am so small Da’s sock covers my arm
-- Speaker (Line 1)

Importance: This opening line firmly establishes the chronological moment in the speaker’s memory, as well as the key relationship which the poem is going to explore. It also conveys a sense of innocence and comfort; the speaker is vulnerable as a small child, yet protected by their father’s presence. The sock, as a metaphor for the father himself, is a soft and warm shield between the speaker and the world.

his squeaky Bible, his sin
-- Speaker (Line 15)

Importance: This line juxtaposes the austerity and piousness of a bible with the concept of sin. The word “squeaky” here has a double meaning: the word is often associated with the phrase “squeaky clean,” or devoid of failing; however, it can also refer to the rigidity of the book’s spine, suggesting that it’s never been opened. Both offer different interpretations to the...