When Paps comes back, he wants to spend every moment with his family. He gives all three brothers baths without bubbles, sending them all into the tub together. He gives them a very thorough washing. Ma is also in the bathroom, in a bra and her work pants, getting ready at the mirror. Paps is shirtless, too, and they can see his muscle. They can also see how their skin is both darker than Ma’s and lighter than Paps’s. Paps looks like an animal, “ruddy and physical and instinctive; his shoulders hulked and curved,” while Ma is small and delicate (45).

Paps pees in front of them and everyone watches, including Ma. Paps sees her watching, and when he’s done, he slides his hands under her bra. Though she shoves him away, they can see that it brings her happiness. The boys are extra still in the bathtub because they don’t want to ruin the moment. When Ma notes that the boys will get sick if they stay sitting in the tub, Paps dries them and puts towels around them. He places each of their palms against his, spending the longest with

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now