You know what's scary? Your mom.
No, seriously—mother-son relationships have proved to be a rich source of horror over the years (Sophocles, Hamlet, Freud's Oedipal complex, Psycho—do we really need to go on?)
The mother-son relationship in "The Rocking-Horse Winner" is a mess of unfulfilled desire, anxiety, hostility, and terror. Paul's father is virtually absent from the story—we never learn his name—while his mother frantically tries to make up for all the luxuries her husband can't provide by trying to taken on the role of breadwinner, a role traditionally reserved for the husband (Note: We at Shmoop do not condone strict adherence to traditional gender norms, so go Hester). The only thing is, Hester's own sense of insufficiency spills over onto Paul, who is driven mad by his ever more desperate attempts to please her and earn her love.
Questions About Family
- How does Hester feel about her children? Do you think she loves them? Why or why not?
- How do the children feel about Hester? What kind of relationship does Paul have with his mother—do they seem close?
- What role do male figures such as the father, Uncle Oscar, and Bassett play in the story? Who do you think has the most influence on Paul, and why?
Chew on This
Paul's desire to please his mother ultimately leads to his death.
Lawrence's story explores how money troubles can harm family relationships.