Q1: How did Kezia’s efforts to please her father result in a situation where he was displeased?
Kezia, in an attempt to surprise and please her father, decided to make a pin-cushion from a beautiful yellow silk. In search of stuffing material, she unwittingly used her father’s crucial speech papers. This caused an uproar in the house when the papers went missing. The act that was supposed to bring happiness resulted in anger and disappointment instead, distancing Kezia even further from her father.
Q2: How did Kezia perceive the difference between her father and Mr Macdonald?
Through her observation, Kezia noticed a stark contrast between her own father and Mr Macdonald, their neighbour. Mr Macdonald was observed as a playful, gentle, and affectionate father, engaging actively with his children. This was in direct contrast to Kezia’s father, who was more authoritative and aloof, and their interactions were more formal rather than affectionate.
Q3: How did Kezia start sympathising with her father?
Kezia’s perception of her father started to shift when he comforted her after a nightmare. She observed his caring and comforting side, which she hadn’t seen before. While lying close to him, she understood his hardness was due to his responsibilities and the fact he worked every day. This understanding brought about a change in how she perceived her father, leading her to see him as a human being with his own struggles and needs, and in turn, evoking her sympathy.