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• Portrait of Tom's absent father


  • Present throughout the whole play
  • Serves as a reminder that escape is possible
  • Mocks Tom as a constant reminder of what his father did and what he currently lacks the courage to do
• Tom's father leaving


  Caused pain and trauma for Tom
• Laura's father leaving


  Had a substantial impact on her life and shaped her character
• If Tom leaves


  It will affect Laura the most, reopening old wounds and creating new ones
• Tom pointing at his father's picture

  Will upset Amanda and serve as a reminder that he could follow in his father's footsteps and leave
• The audience of the play sympathise with Tom, they are upset on his behalf as they know it must not be easy to remain in a dead end job, being forced to stay due to family duty