The Rocking-Horse Winner, By D. H. Lawrence

There is an old saying, “money can’t buy happiness.” However, in some cases one may believe this statement is correct. Throughout D.H. Lawrence’s, The Rocking-Horse Winner, the use of characterization, conflict, and symbolism shows a constant theme of wealth overpowering the importance of family. The beginning of this story starts by introducing one of the main characters, Hester, and her children; one in particular, her son, Paul. Hester constantly complains about not having any luck; she married an unlucky man, causing her to be unlucky. According to the narrator, the house whispers, “there must be more money” (Lawrence 764). Hester states, “It’s what causes you to have money. If you’re lucky you have money” (Lawrence 764). Hester admires money more than she admires her family; in this case, luck is a symbol of wealth. Without luck, there is no such thing as being rich.
Paul has 5000 pounds set aside; he is planning to give his mother 1000 pounds a year. However, Hester is in debt and wishes to have the 5000 pounds all at once. Paul happily and excitedly replies, “Oh, let her have it, then! We can get some more with the other” (Lawrence 770), meaning that Paul is sure he will win more events, causing him to gain money. This shows that Hester has nothing to live on except for whatever her son is able to provide for her. Through this quote, the reader is also able to see the characterization of Paul; he is a generous child that cares for his mother's well-being, and his mother is, unfortunately, not able to see