Scunthorpe Pageturners discussion

When his mother’s trouble became known, and her people made it clear that they’d have no more to do with her... (p. 5) Furlong was born to an unmarried mother who died at sixteen. Due to the generosity of his employer he was one of few babies born to a person outside of wedlock who got to stay with his mother. Discuss Furlong’s experience and the long-term impact this had on his character.

This experience clearly has an effect on Bill Furlongs sense of self worth and his appreciation of the effect and goodness which can result from tolerance and mutual respect.

Furlong is portrayed as a victim of a cold society that does not approve of his family setup. He is then more inclined to be sympathetic to other victims of the society.

Bill Furlong had great empathy for others born in similar circumstances to his own. This experience led Bill's need 'to give back to those less fortunate than him and his family'.

Following on from Jamie's comment above re tolerance and mutual respect, imagine what a world this would be if every human had these two characteristics and everyone helped someone less fortunate and gave them a helping hand up. Even the 'modern' term 'Pay it forward' movements works but only up to the first selfish person.