Question -
Answer -
1. Even though the story is not an Indian one, we can closely associate with it because the characters portrayed are not unusual in the Indian context. Ours is a patriarchal society and authoritative fathers like Kezia's are a standard. Similarly, suppressed wives and mothers, and doting grandmothers are commonly found in Indian households.
2. While it was imperative to make Kezia realise her mistake and to teach her a lesson, her father should have tried to understand the child's position as well.
Kezia's father comes across as a strict disciplinarian who ordered things around in the house. As a short-tempered person, he punishes Kezia for her mistake. However, it would be wrong to call him unkind since towards the end of the story we find him to be an affectionate and loving father. He is not indifferent; rather, as a responsible father who works hard all day long, he does not get time to show his love and care.