Character Perspectives in Voices in the Park

Voices in the Park is a picture book written and illustrated by Anthony Browne. It’s a unique and cleverly crafted story that is told from four different perspectives, with each voice bringing its own viewpoint and emotional tone to the events that unfold in a park.

Anthony Browne uses monkeys to represent the characters in the book, adding a playful and humorous element that makes the story more engaging and accessible for children. This choice also allows him to explore serious themes in a way that resonates with younger readers, balancing the weight of the story with a lighter, more approachable tone.

Voice One: The Mother

The mother is from an upper class background and is controlling. Her narrative is filled with a sense of superiority, and she views the world through a lens of social status.

The theme of social class and control is evident as she is concerned about maintaining appearances and dismisses those she perceives as beneath her. Her attitude is reflected in her controlling behaviour toward Charles and her disapproval of him interacting with other children, particularly a girl named Smudge, whom she sees as less refined.

Voice Two: The Father

The father is from a working class background and feels the weight of his struggles. He is unemployed and takes both his daughter, Smudge, and his dog, Albert, to the park to find some peace. The theme of struggle and resilience is evident as his narrative reflects his feelings of inadequacy and frustration.

Despite his hardships, he exhibits a sense of determination and finds joy in small moments, such as when Smudge befriends Charles and they play together. His perspective highlights the dignity in resilience and the simple pleasures that can lighten the burden of life’s challenges.

Voice Three: Charles

Charles, the mother’s son, feels isolated and constrained by his mother’s expectations. His voice reveals his loneliness and desire for freedom. The theme of isolation and conformity is evident as his narrative reflects the social expectations that contribute to his sense of loneliness.

He is initially hesitant to play with Smudge because of his mother’s strict upbringing, but he eventually finds a brief escape from his loneliness by interacting with her. Charles's narrative highlights the yearning for connection and the impact of societal pressures on his emotional state.

Voice Four: Smudge

Smudge, the father’s daughter, is carefree and full of life. Her voice is the most joyful and optimistic of all. The theme of joy and connection is evident as she sees the world with a sense of wonder and is not burdened by social expectations.

Smudge is excited to meet and play with Charles, and her narrative is filled with energy and happiness. She represents the theme of finding joy in simple, spontaneous interactions and the importance of human connection.

References

Montgomery, H., & Watson, N. (Eds.) 2009, Children's Literature, 1st ed, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes