The name Henry
The protagonist is named after his father Henry Sr. however he is not the first child named after his father. The first child died while still an infant and their mother believes he is one of the stars in the sky. Ironically the title is a direct reference to the protagonist’s dead brother rather than the protagonist himself. Thus, Henry is living up to a name already attached to a dead child, as the parents also do not acknowledge him as Henry.
Irish freedom
The narrative charts the history of Ireland from the upheavals of 1916 into the Irish war of independence. Through the protagonist, the author highlights the paradigm shift in the fight for Irish freedom. Henry becomes part of the ceaseless violence that stray away from the core reasons for the conflict. Ironically, illustrating that the fight was more about power and business than the betterment of the Irish masses. Henry’s disillusionment showcases the irony in the cause behind the Irish freedom for the key players.
Henry’s young age
The story finds Henry in his childhood but as the story progresses he experiences a lot through his life. He becomes a member of the Irish Citizen Army while participating in the start of the Irish rebellion in 1916. He goes on to engage with key figures in the movement as he eventually fights for Irish independence in the IRA. Ironically by the end of the story, it is revealed that he is only twenty years old. Thus demonstrating the political climate and social dynamic that rushed adolescents into adulthood.
The mother’s love
The story also reveals that Henry’s mother is a young mother who has birthed many children most of whom are dead. However, Henry feels her mother is detached from them as she is emotionally unavailable. Ironically she attached more to her dead children than the children that are alive and well. She adores them by stargazing rather than be present and affectionate to Henry.
