Identity
Why does Billy feel uncomfortable when he first returns home?
He no longer fully belongs to either the white world or his Aboriginal community.
Why doesn’t Billy fully belong in the white community anymore?
Because of racism and prejudice against Aboriginal people
How are the police portrayed in the story?
As suspicious, aggressive, and prejudiced toward Aboriginal people.
What once offered Billy a possible escape from his hometown?
Football
Why is family important to Billy despite his absence?
It remains his strongest emotional connection.
How does Billy’s education affect his sense of identity?
It separates him from his community and makes others see him as different.
Why doesn’t Billy fully belong in his home community either?
ecause his education and lifestyle make him seem superior or distant.
Why is Billy targeted by the police despite doing nothing wrong?
Because of his race and association with other Aboriginal men.
Why did Billy’s escape ultimately fail?
Racism and social barriers limited his opportunities.
How does Billy feel about leaving his family behind?
He feels guilt and responsibility.
Why is Billy described as being “between two worlds”?
He has lived in white society but was born into Aboriginal culture.
How does Darcy Rose’s life contrast with Billy’s sense of belonging?
Darcy belongs physically but is trapped by addiction and despair.
How does the police encounter affect Billy emotionally?
It humiliates and angers him, reminding him of his vulnerability.
How does Darcy Rose represent entrapment?
He is stuck in alcoholism and unable to escape his circumstances.
How does Uncle Cookie represent responsibility in the community?
He maintains order and protects cultural values.
How do other Aboriginal characters react to Billy’s success?
With a mix of pride, resentment, and suspicion.
What moment shows Billy beginning to feel a sense of belonging again?
When he reconnects with his family at the end of the story.
What does this treatment suggest about power in society?
Authority figures abuse power over marginalized groups.
What role does alcohol play in this theme?
It traps characters in cycles of self-destruction.
What does Billy’s sister’s birthday symbolize?
A reason for reunion and reconnection.
What does Billy’s return home force him to confront about himself?
That he cannot escape his Aboriginal identity.
How does racism limit Billy’s freedom despite his success?
It shows that education and success do not protect him from prejudice.
What does Billy’s return home suggest about escaping the past?
That escape is temporary and the past must be faced.
What final decision shows Billy accepting responsibility?
Choosing to stay and reconnect rather than run away again