Part One
Part one introduces us to the main action of the play. The play begins with the narrator explaining the story of the Johnstone twins who were separated at birth and never knew they were related until the day they died. He tells us that we can now see how the events unfolded and make up our own mind about the mother who gave one of her sons away.
Mrs Johnstone sings a song in the first scene that explains her life up until that point. She met a man who said she looked like Marilyn Monroe, she got pregnant and married immediately after. By the time she was 25, she had seven children and was pregnant again when her husband walked out on her.
We see the poor living conditions of Mrs Johnstone and her family as they struggle for food, milk and essential items. She thinks that there is hope as she has a new job with Mrs Lyons and she will be able to provide more for her family.
We hear how Mrs Lyons can’t have children, despite having a large house and lots of money. Mrs Johnstone leaves Mrs Lyons to go to the hospital, where she learns that she is having twins. She is shocked and worried as she feels she may not be able to look after all the children.
Mrs Lyons asks her to give one of the twins to her. Mrs Johnstone is horrified at the idea but thinks about the type of life a child could have in Mrs Lyons’ house. She thinks about the opportunities that the child would have and how they wouldn’t be on the dole when they get older, highlighting the poverty trap that her kids are trapped in. They both sing a song highlighting how good life would be for the child.
- What have you learned about Mrs Johnstone’s life based on the song she sings at the beginning of the play?
- Research Marilyn Monroe and write down five pieces of information about her to share with the class.
- What does the narrator tell us about the play at the beginning? Why does he do this?
- How do we know that life is difficult for the Johnstones? Explain with reference to the play.
- How does Mrs Johnstone react when Mrs Lyons puts the shoes on the table? Why?
- Do you believe in superstitions? If so, which ones do you believe in?
- According to the song that they both sing, what could Mrs Lyons offer the new baby?
- Do you think that she should give one of her babies away? Why/Why not?