# XXII explained — Mary, Mary

> Chapter companion for Mary, Mary by James Stephens.

## What happens

Mrs. Cafferty and Mary go shopping together, discussing the challenges of motherhood and dressing children. Mrs. Cafferty compliments Mary extensively, boosting her confidence. They shop for Nora's first Communion outfit, and during their walk, Mary spots the policeman from a distance, feeling a mix of familiarity and fear, and is relieved to be with Mrs. Cafferty.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance and Dress

Mary's careful dressing and the detailed shopping for Nora's Communion outfit highlight the importance of appearance.

### Mother-Daughter Relationship

Mrs. Cafferty's advice and compliments to Mary reflect a maternal dynamic, contrasting with Mrs. Makebelieve's approach.

### Social Class and Aspiration

The shopping strategies of Mrs. Cafferty versus Mrs. Makebelieve illustrate different economic struggles and aspirations.

## Character check-ins

### Mary Makebelieve

Accompanies Mrs. Cafferty shopping, feels self-conscious and fearful upon seeing the policeman.

### Mrs. Cafferty

Takes Mary shopping, shares her experiences as a mother, and compliments Mary extensively.

### Mrs. Makebelieve

Mentioned in contrast to Mrs. Cafferty's shopping style; described as having personal friendships with shopkeepers.

### Norah

Mrs. Cafferty's daughter, preparing for her first Communion.

### The Man

The policeman Mary sees while shopping; described as gigantic and calm.

## Key lines

> Wait until you have children, my dear, you won't be so pernickety then.

Mrs. Cafferty tells Mary that having children will make her less fussy about dressing.

_Mrs. Cafferty uses her own experience to advise Mary about the realities of motherhood._

> Sixpence and not a penny more; I can get it in Moore Street for fivepence halfpenny.

Mrs. Cafferty haggles aggressively, claiming she can find the item cheaper elsewhere.

_Illustrates Mrs. Cafferty's combative shopping style and knowledge of prices._

> She could feel his eyes raking her from head to foot; she could see his great hand going up to tap his crinkly moustache.

Mary imagines the policeman scrutinizing her appearance and touching his moustache.

_Mary's fearful and vivid perception of the policeman's gaze._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mary_mary_se/chapters/xxii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mary_mary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mary_mary_se/chapters