Characters - Sandra
Sandra is a loving mother to Amy. She works hard to provide for her daughter despite the challenges she faces. Her thoughts reveal her cynicism about the festive period. Sandra finds the commercialisation of Christmas tiring. She is frequently made to work extra hours in a job she does not care for. Just like the wifie
on the bus whose lap is overflowin wi parcels
, Sandra shows she is still susceptible to the materialism of Christmas in her desire to buy nice things for Amy.
Although Sandra displays some sympathy for the homeless man, thinking at least he鈥檇 be warm
in the nativity scene, she firmly refuses Amy鈥檚 suggestion of him staying in their spare room. Sandra鈥檚 warning to her daughter that:
you cannae just take anybdy intae your hoose
contrasts with the Christmas message of compassion and charity.
Protective
Sandra is protective of her daughter. Amy鈥檚 gloved hands felt like a wee mouse or hamster in Sandra鈥檚 hand
, the simile depicting Sandra鈥檚 perception of Amy as being small and fragile. When Amy questions why the sleeping man is homeless, Sandra鈥檚 thoughts reveal that she didnae want her to know, she was too young
.
She wants to protect her daughter from social issues, hoping Amy will maintain her innocence and wonder of the world for as long as possible. Sandra鈥檚 greatest concern is for her daughter, although her decision to give the papergirl money suggests that she feels guilty for not helping the homeless man.