The End of the Nuclear Family in Judith Merril's "That Only a Mother"

This analysis of Judith Merril's science-fiction story "That Only a Mother" argues that the destructive influence of wartime social order manifests in the characters' interpersonal relations. The student explores this theme using specific details from the text, including Merril's use of close third point of view and the creation of a mood of alienation.

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Bridget's feedback:

"This is an insightful discussion of Merril's story, with strong analysis and excellent use of specific evidence to back up claims. You bring up a lot of good points--especially compelling are the discussions about close third POV and how an atmosphere of invasion is created toward the end (strangers' faces, khaki). My first comment is regarding the introduction (including the thesis) and the conclusion. To start with the conclusion: rather than winding the essay up, the final sentence seems to open up a new area of discussion (context of the story's writing). I would suggest reorganizing the concluding paragraph so the final thought is integrated more smoothly. I also suggest revising the thesis (final sentence of the first paragraph). Right now, the cause-effect seems the opposite of what the story and your essay are exploring. Take a look at that sentence and make sure your intended meaning is being clearly expressed. Finally, I urge you to proofread for clarity. Your writing is strong and fluid, but I did notice a few sentences where awkward phrasing or dangling modifiers caused issues with clarity. Addressing those will further strengthen the prose and ensure persuasive communication."

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In-text citation:

(Kibin, 2025)

Reference list entry:

Kibin. (2025). The end of the nuclear family in judith merril's "that only a mother". http://www.kibin.com/essay-examples/the-end-of-the-nuclear-family-in-judith-merrils-that-only-a-mother-5s7vviDV

Be sure to capitalize proper nouns (e.g. Egypt) and titles (e.g. Macbeth) in the essay title portion of your citation.

In-text citation:

("The End of the Nuclear Family in Judith Merril's "That Only a Mother".")

Works Cited entry:

"The End of the Nuclear Family in Judith Merril's "That Only a Mother"." Kibin, 2025, www.kibin.com/essay-examples/the-end-of-the-nuclear-family-in-judith-merrils-that-only-a-mother-5s7vviDV

Footnote:

1. "The End of the Nuclear Family in Judith Merril's "That Only a Mother"." Kibin, 2025. http://www.kibin.com/essay-examples/the-end-of-the-nuclear-family-in-judith-merrils-that-only-a-mother-5s7vviDV.

Bibliography entry:

"The End of the Nuclear Family in Judith Merril's "That Only a Mother"." Kibin, 2025. http://www.kibin.com/essay-examples/the-end-of-the-nuclear-family-in-judith-merrils-that-only-a-mother-5s7vviDV.