At the Back of the North Wind · Chapter
Diamond Learns to Read explained
Diamond's father decides it is time for Diamond to learn to read, using the book of rhymes his mother found on the seashore.
What happens
Diamond's father decides it is time for Diamond to learn to read, using the book of rhymes his mother found on the seashore. Diamond learns quickly and eventually reads through the entire book, finding a poem titled 'Little Boy Blue' that captivates him, though it differs from the one he remembered his mother reading.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Wisdom
Diamond's innocent approach to learning and his fascination with the poem reflect the theme of childhood wisdom.
Dreams and Reality
The poem 'Little Boy Blue' blurs the line between fantasy and reality, as the boy commands nature and creatures.
Characters to notice
- Diamond
Learns to read from the book of rhymes his mother found on the seashore, and reads the poem 'Little Boy Blue'.
- Father
Decides Diamond should learn to read and begins teaching him using the book of rhymes.
- Mother
Previously picked up the book of rhymes on the seashore; Diamond recalls her reading from it.
Key passages
“The question of the tall gentleman as to whether Diamond could read or not set his father thinking it was high time he could; and as soon as old Diamond was suppered and bedded, he began the task that very night.”
The tall gentleman's inquiry about Diamond's reading ability prompted his father to decide it was time for Diamond to learn, and he started teaching him that same night after feeding and settling the horse.
Shows the father's proactive response to a suggestion about Diamond's education.
“Little Boy Blue lost his way in a wood. Sing apples and cherries, roses and honey ; He said, 'I would not go back if I could, It’s all so jolly and funny.'”
Little Boy Blue becomes lost in a forest but finds it so enjoyable that he does not wish to return home.
Opening lines of the poem Diamond reads, highlighting a theme of carefree adventure.