I for Isobel Amy Witting explores the long term effects of an unhappy childhood on Isobel
English I for Isobel “Amy Witting explores the long term effects of an unhappy childhood on Isobel, but her message is ultimately optimistic” In Amy Witting’s I for Isobel, the lasting effects of an unhappy childhood are indeed illustrated through Isobel’s experiences in later life, however, the message of the novel is unquestionable optimistic. It is the abuse Isobel experiences at the hands of her mother, May Callaghan, which was primarily the cause of her unhappiness, as well as the poverty which surrounds her and the indifference shown by her father whilst he is still alive. All these factors result in Isobel exiling herself from the world and finding sanctuary in books. It is through fear of her mother’s mental and physically abuse which causes Isobel to hide her talent for writing, which she refers to as the “word factory” and which she attributes so much blame to for the harsh treatment she receives from her mother. Her social ineptness and lack of self-belief can all be attributed to her painful childhood. As the novel progresses, however, Isobel is forced to face the demons of her past which results in her being able to finally move forward with her life.