Essay Questions

How does Coover develop the theme of dissatisfaction and unfaithfulness?

The reader is introduced to the couple, Dolly and Harry. The couple is blessed with two children, Jimmy and Bitsy. Since the couple is going out for the party, they ask the babysitter to take care of the children till they return. Harry is secretly admiring the babysitter because he does not get enough sexual contentment from Dolly. Harry does not find Dolly sexually attractive anymore since they now have three children. The babysitter is still a young woman who is at the peak of her adolescent stage. Harry keeps on fantasizing about having sex with the babysitter. When they attend the party, Harry ignores Dolly because he keeps himself busy with other women. On realizing that Harry is disinterested in her, Dolly engages in a conversation with the party's host, and she realizes that he is attentive. She instantly falls in love with him.

How does the author depict the irony of the modern entertainment industry in America?

Television is mainly mentioned in the book 'Babysitter.' Television became part of the American lifestyle in the early 1960s. Throughout the story, the television is on in Mr. Tucker's house. The babysitter is rushing to finish her duties in time to find time to watch the television. For instance, the babysitter hurriedly puts the children to bed so that she can continue watching the TV. Towards the end of the book, the reader gets surprised that Dolly suggests watching the television programs after being told that she had lost her children. The author is categorical that modern entertainment influences the way people think. Unfortunately, its programs are wasteful because they have no benefit other than brainwashing people to believe in the illusion.

How does the author appeal to the sense of hearing to readers?

The book commences by describing what is happening in Tuckers' home, which paints the image of liveliness. For instance, there is the sound of the screaming baby and the sound of television music, which depicts the sense of hearing. Consequently, the author uses this imagery to keep the reader attentive and participative throughout the entire book.