Chapter 72: Checking Out and Stepping Up – Hugh
Spoiler Warning: This chapter contains significant moments from Releasing 10. If you haven't read up to this point, proceed with caution.
Summary
The chapter opens in the evening of March 18, 1999, as Hugh settles into homework at the kitchen table. His sister Claire returns from dance practice, visibly worried. She tells Hugh that Lizzie acted strangely at school—she removed her shoes and tights during class and ran outside in the rain, claiming she wanted to feel the sun on her legs. Lizzie was sent to the principal’s office and her father took her home early. Hugh feels a rush of dread but immediately lies to Claire, saying he dared Lizzie to do it. Claire scolds him for the prank, and Hugh pretends to accept the blame. Once alone, he rushes to the attic where his father has been isolating himself for years, writing murder mysteries and sinking deeper into depression. Hugh slams the desk to wake his father and asks for a ride to Lizzie’s house. His father admits he’s having a bad day and cannot help. Hugh responds with bitter disappointment, says he won’t ask again, and leaves without looking back.
Key Events
- Claire reports Lizzie’s disruptive behavior at school.
- Hugh invents a lie to protect Lizzie, taking the blame himself.
- Hugh confronts his father in the attic office.
- Hugh’s father expresses regret but fails to provide support.
- Hugh vows never to ask his father for help again.
Character Development
Hugh demonstrates deepening maturity and loyalty. He instinctively covers for Lizzie, prioritising her reputation over his own. When his father fails him, Hugh does not break down but instead hardens his resolve, stepping into a role of self-reliance. Claire shows concern for Lizzie, but Hugh’s lie keeps her from the truth, reflecting the secrets that shield her from family dysfunction. Hugh’s father remains trapped in depression, physically present but emotionally absent, unable to rise even when his son explicitly needs him.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Mental health and family neglect are central. Hugh’s father’s isolation in the attic office—a “lair of isolation”—symbolises his withdrawal from responsibility. The contrast between Lizzie’s desire to feel the sun during rain and the father’s darkness underscores the theme of seeking light amid despair. The weight of childhood is evident as Hugh must parent both his sister and himself while his biological parent flounders.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter marks a turning point in Hugh’s relationship with his father. Hugh’s decision to stop seeking his father’s help signals a permanent shift: he will now rely only on himself. It also deepens the mystery around Lizzie’s mental state, setting up future conflict. The parallel between Lizzie’s breakdown and the father’s depression hints at unresolved trauma affecting multiple characters.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Hugh lie to Claire about daring Lizzie?
He lies to protect Lizzie from suspicion or punishment. By taking the blame, he normalises her odd behavior and prevents Claire (and potentially adults) from investigating further.
2. What does Hugh’s father’s condition reveal about the family?
The father’s deep depression and isolation show that the family has been silently struggling for years. Hugh’s mother is absent, and Hugh has learned to manage alone. The father’s failure to support Hugh underscores the theme of parental neglect.
3. How does Hugh’s exit from the attic prepare him for future challenges?
By walking away without looking back, Hugh severs his reliance on his father. This moment hardens him emotionally and forces him to handle crises (like Lizzie’s episode) entirely on his own, shaping his protective but isolated persona.