Robbie

Robbie’s outer characterisation is brief. We learn that he is at an age where his physical appearance is starting to change. As a result, he looks more masculine: “her son’s torso was slowly assuming an approximating of their V shape” (ll. 38-39). Later, he is shown as being focused on his war video game: “flushed and slack as he pressed buttons to shoot again and again and again.” (ll. 96-97)

Inner characterisation

From the beginning of the story, we learn that Robbie expects his mother to buy something for charity (l. 4). This is strange, as he knows she earns little money and even mocks her because of her insignificant job: “ ‘I don’t’ see why you bother with work,’ Robbie said, on many occasions. ‘It’s not as if you make anything happen, is it?’ ” (ll. 81-82). However, this shows his immature thinking; perhaps he also wants his mother to be like other mothers, regardless of her financial status. 

Robbie’s immature thinking is also shown by his simplistic opinions on soldiers. This is empha...