Chapter 2 of Dave Pelzer’s A Child Called “It” offers a stark contrast to the harrowing events depicted in the opening chapter. This section, appropriately titled “Good Times,” serves as a poignant flashback to a period of happiness and normalcy in Dave’s early childhood, before the onset of the horrific abuse he would later endure. This A Child Called It Study Guide Chapter 2 aims to explore the key elements of this chapter, analyzing its significance and providing a deeper understanding of the context surrounding Dave’s experiences.
The chapter transports us back to the 1960s, where Dave, along with his two brothers, led a seemingly idyllic life in Daly City. His father, Stephen Joseph, worked diligently as a fireman in San Francisco, while his mother, Catherine Roerva, dedicated herself to creating a loving and nurturing home. Pelzer vividly describes his mother as someone who “glowed with love for her children” (pg. 15), highlighting her commitment to housekeeping, her exceptional cooking skills, and her passion for sharing the wonders of the city with her children, including vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown.
Their home was filled with pets, most notably a tortoise named Thor, sparking Dave’s curiosity and leading to valuable life lessons from his mother about the animal kingdom. These lessons included profound insights into the miracle of life, witnessed during the birth of kittens to their family cat. The Pelzer family cherished holidays, beginning with Halloween and culminating in elaborate Christmas celebrations. Decorating the Christmas tree became a cherished family tradition, followed by scenic drives to admire the festive displays in their neighborhood.
Christmas mornings were filled with excitement as each child discovered a mountain of presents awaiting them. Dave poignantly recalls a Christmas when he saw his mother crying tears of joy, explaining that she was overcome with happiness to have such a loving and complete family. This memory underscores the deep emotional connection and sense of belonging that Dave experienced during this period.
During his father’s 24-hour shifts at the fire station, Dave’s mother would organize day trips to various attractions, including the Golden Gate Park and the Steinhart Aquarium. The aquarium, with its fascinating exhibits of alligators and turtles, captivated Dave and his brothers. He vividly remembers feeling a mix of fear and fascination at the prospect of falling into the alligator pond, and the comforting reassurance of his mother’s hand in his.
Springtime brought picnics in blooming parks, while summer vacations were meticulously planned by his mother. Camping trips to Portola or Memorial Park were common, but the highlight for Dave was always the Russian River. He fondly remembers a specific trip in kindergarten when his mother surprised him by taking him out of school early for a visit. They spent their days climbing trees, swimming in the river, and learning essential swimming skills from his mother. The Russian River symbolized safety, warmth, and unconditional love for Dave, creating lasting memories of joyful family experiences.
Analysis of “Good Times” and its Significance
This chapter serves as a powerful contrast to the abuse detailed later in the book. The title, “Good Times,” clearly demarcates a period of happiness and love from the subsequent trauma. This division highlights the devastating impact of the abuse on Dave’s life, shattering his sense of security and transforming his family dynamic. The shift in tone from the previous chapter’s urgency and solemnity to the lighthearted nostalgia in Chapter 2 emphasizes the profound loss of innocence and the yearning for a time when Dave felt loved and protected.
Catherine Roerva’s portrayal undergoes a dramatic transformation. In the first chapter, she is depicted as a frightening and unpredictable figure. Here, she is presented as a loving and devoted mother. This juxtaposition raises crucial questions about the factors that contributed to her change in behavior. What events or circumstances led to her transformation from a caring parent to an abusive tormentor?
The detailed descriptions of specific places and moments, particularly the Russian River, serve as potent symbols of the family life Dave once knew. The Russian River represents a sanctuary, a haven of happiness and security that will inevitably be tainted by the unfolding events. This foreshadowing creates a sense of unease, leaving the reader anticipating the inevitable loss of this idyllic existence.
Questions for Discussion and Further Study
- How does the contrast between Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 impact your understanding of Dave Pelzer’s experiences?
- What role does Catherine Roerva play in shaping Dave’s early life, and how does her portrayal evolve throughout the chapter?
- What significance does the Russian River hold as a symbol in the context of Dave’s overall narrative?
- What themes are introduced in Chapter 2 that might foreshadow future events or conflicts in the story?
- How does Pelzer’s writing style contribute to the emotional impact of this chapter, particularly in conveying the sense of nostalgia and longing?
By delving into the details of a child called it study guide chapter 2, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of Dave Pelzer’s early experiences, understanding the stark contrast between a childhood filled with love and the devastating reality of abuse that would soon follow. This chapter serves as a reminder of the fragility of innocence and the enduring power of memory in shaping a person’s life.
