A Boy Called Bat

The cars that Bat’s parents drive are symbols that represent larger concepts related to both them and Bat. Bat’s mother Valerie drives a “burgundy station wagon” (63), while his father drives a “fast little yellow convertible” (36). The cars symbolize the parents’ mindsets and values and Bat’s feelings. Valerie’s choice of car frames her as responsible and family-oriented. She has chosen to prioritize her children with a larger car with a middle seat (which Bat requires to feel secure). Dad’s vehicle, which is small and flashy, is used to show that he does not prioritize his children. Rather, he focuses on himself and his independent lifestyle. By using the cars as symbols, Arnold illustrates key characteristics without explicitly stating them.

The cars also implicitly reveal Bat’s feelings regarding his life at home with his mother and visits to his father. He has a much stronger connection with his mother, who provides a safe and comforting environment for him, as opposed to Dad, who creates a challenging and stressful environment for his son. The use of car symbolism is designed to help the reader understand the contrast between Bat’s emotional states when he is with his mother and when he is with his father.