Stories with a common theme - Deception

Deceptions in Lamb to the Slaughter

Mr Maloney

- Mr. Maloney is a detective who probably did care for his wife. This is shown by the fact that he takes his wife out to dinner every Thursday. It was their time together.

- However, as the story approaches the climax, a different side fo Mr. Maloney is presented. He turns out to be callous, uncaring and not bother about leaving his wife in her extreme state of pregnency. He is only bothered about her not creating a 'fuss' as it may be bad for his career prospects.

Mary Maloney

- Presented in the beginning of the story as a loving wife and perfect housekeeper, blissful in her 'perfect' world. The murder is a reaction brought about by her disillustionment.

- The woman presented to the readers is shrewd, calculating and an extremely talented actress. She shows no remourse and accepts her husband's death with a lack of emotion which is in sharp contrast to the woman in the beginning of the story. The story ends in her giggles - probably because she knows she has got away with murder. Which one is he real Mary Maloney? One can only guess.

Deception in 'Male Child'

- Chuang Phoon has 6 daughters and yearns for a son. He has a devoted wife and he cares for her. He is a dutiful husband and father and believes he has been cursed with 6 girls, because of sins he has commited. He prayed everyday for a son.

- However, one visit to the brothel changed all that. He was so enamoursed by the wiles and charms of the prostitute that he wants to marry her. He needs an excuse to leave his wife and now starts praying for a daughter.

Deceptions in Love


- Frankie, who was drawing good income, and Pearl were truly in love. It was love at first sight. However, Frankie was dating Mee Choon. Frankie' s heart was now given over to Pearl. He betrayed Mee Choon, but can Mee Choon forgive Frankie's insensitive decision and never bear any grudge?

- Frankie decieved Pearl into being engaged to him. He said that his father was ill after a accident, but it was actually a heridity illness. All this for the sake of marrying Pearl. This nearly caused Pearl to marry him.