The Map Woman Flashcards
(5 cards)
“A woman’s skin was a map of the town where she’d grown from a child.”
The past is literally imprinted on her body, showing inescapable history.
Could symbolize nostalgia or trauma that lingers in identity.
“The map was under her skin, a précis of where to end or begin.”
Life is already mapped out for women by society.
“End or begin” could suggest choices in life, but also fate.
“She knew by heart the shopping-centre car park.”
Everyday locations have personal significance.
“Knew by heart” suggests deep emotional ties to places.
“Tattooed on her back was the school.”
Suggests the lasting impact of childhood and education.
“Tattooed” implies permanence, as if she can never escape it.
“The motorway groaned”
Personification of the road suggests movement, transition, and escape.
Could also symbolize frustration with the past.
