Discussion

Assignment 2B in the written exam in English HF B on August 18th 2017 asks you to discuss how best to respect other people’s boundaries, by relating your essay to the short story “Open Or Wrapped” by Lynne Rees.

In the short story, the main character’s personal boundaries are disrespected by most boys and men she meets. Because Francine’s breasts developed early, she became the target of all kinds of unwanted sexual advances from a young age:

If boys weren’t trying to flick her nipples, then uncles with boozy breath were grabbing hold of her at Christmas and pretending to tickle her. And then there was that fat, greasy slob at the kiosk in the Co-op who always tried to rub her palm with his index finger… (ll. 23-26)

The behaviour of the boys and men in the above example is highly disrespectful and inappropriate, especially considering Francine’s young age. They should not have touched her without her permission. You could suggest instead that men show women that they are attracted to them through consenting conversation and polite compliments.

In the story, Francine becomes a young adult who works in a fish and chips shop, where she continues to be the target of sexual advances, this time...