Keith’s father is presented by Frayn to be a very cold and sinister character in “Spies.” His personality is unique within the close and he develops into being one of the only antagonists Stephen faces towards the end of the novel. Keith’s father’s incessant whistling, presented in the extract, mirrors his endless work and efforts towards making “perfection even more perfect.” The way in which he whistles also seems ironic considering his personality “effortlessly as a songbird.” The “infinite” complexity of his tune also echoes the infinite complexity of loyalties in his family, and the ideas Stephen holds. The whistling also seems to act as a warning to others of his approaching presence. A scary introduction and a sinister warning. Keith’s father’s figures of speech seem very alien to us of how a typical father would act. His short “impatient” tone reflects how his temper also seems to be short and torturous. The term “Old bean” he uses is also a sinister recurring motif of the novel. Used in conjunction with an “ironic smile” this creates a foreboding air of terrifying mockery. The inappropriate usage of this common colloquialism strikes fear into Stephen, “… just too scary to imagine.”

Keith’s father also holds a strict and unforgiving control over his entire family. His household is run like a dictatorial regime, with any who go against his wishes pay the price. In the case of Keith, he threatens “I’ll cane you,” and does indeed carry out this practise. This violent nature adds to his sinister personality. We also learn that similar physical punishment is used against his wife once he learns of her activities. However in her case the violence is much more dangerous, by pressing a knife into her throat. Keith’s father rules primarily by fear and intimidation, as Stephen realises when he is asked to return the basket. Stephen identifies that without this technique he is powerless. However, he then utters the word “please.” This out of character, awkward statement manages to throw Stephen off his guard. This presentation of Keith’s father shows how he is able to use his controlling nature in all circumstances, even if reduced to pleading.

Frayn also presents Keith’s father as a great influence in his son’s own morals and personality. This becomes clear throughout the novel as Keith puts on “one of his father’s smiles” or lowers his eyelids in the same manner as his father, “one of his father’s disapproving looks.” The extent of this influence becomes clear when he repeats the ritual performed by his father to his mother, on Stephen. As the blade is being pushed into Stephen’s throat he realises that this is the source of his torturous technique.

Keith’s father’s motives for preventing his wife aiding his brother-in-law, Uncle Peter, are left inexplicit. Through this presentation we are left to wonder whether he suspects his wife of cheating on him, or perhaps if he is merely showing a loyalty to the laws of his country by not aiding a fleeing serviceman. However, if this was the case we would expect him to also contact the authorities. This element of mystery about his motives is an effective device Frayn uses to add depth to his character.

Frayn’s presentation of Keith’s father’s physical appearance also contrasts with others in the close and makes him seem out of place. Being much older than his wife and Mr and Mrs Tracey, he is described as the “middle-aged husband.” This contrast is accentuated with Stephen’s father who is constantly either away from home or asleep in the armchair. Mr Hayward however, “never found a resting place” just like the endless tune he whistles, and is always at home. His only employment it seems is working around the house and garden, trying to improve perfection. Presenting another air of mystery and confusion regarding his character.

Frayn has hinted at a reason behind the slightly disturbed personality of Keith’s father. As a veteran of the first world war, he would have experienced many events that seem to have distorted his personality and morals. His stern and strict laws may also relate to this.

In conclusion, Frayn successfully presents the sinister and ominous qualities in Keith’s father’s character through the language he uses and his actions towards others. Motifs such as his never ending whistling provide key clues as to his personality, and his violence can be seen in many forms, providing a contrast against many other adults in the close.

_{Mark achieved: 15/20}

_{Teacher comments: Well done, a detailed understanding. Good use of textual references to support your points and a foucs on the question. Remember to ensure that you support every point with textual evidence. You must also refer to function of dual narration, language etc.}

_{References: “Spies” by Michael Frayn.}