The importance of individuality against normality.
“The 10pm Question” is an award-winning, young adult novel written by Kate De Goldi.
Set in New Zealand, the book explores the life of a 12 year old boy Frankie Parsons with a voice of anxiety that is constantly forming questions inside his head. After the arrival of a new girl at school, Frankie’s routine shaped life is turned upside down and he is forced to confront the 10pm question that he has been reluctant to ask. While the book explores numerous themes, one concept is very clear throughout the text, the importance of individuality against normality.
“Do you think I’m normal?” he said in a rush. “What is normal?” sighed Ma. (pg.7)
This quotation is a bold example of the main characters thoughts on normality, whilst Frankie requires reassurance to believe that he can be categorised as normal, Ma makes a central point in which she voices the doubt of there being any normality at all.
The simplicity of the words used, help the reader elaborate on the feelings felt by the characters, although Frankie fears being unusual or odd, Ma feels as though the meaning of normality has been altered and in reality there is in fact no way that a judgement can be made.
The use of the word normal is utilised in order to confront current issues faced by young adults, the way in which society is being forced to function under a set of standards that compel young adults to limit their individuality and sense of self.