What is Jerry’s family situation? in the story " through the tunnel"
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Answer:
Jerry is "an only child,eleven years old," and his mother is a widow. As a result, he seems to feel very responsible for her. "He was very familiar with anxious, apologetic smile," a smile she offers him when she fears that he longs for more independence and greater freedom from her. When he sees this smile, "Contrition sent him running after her." Thus, he appears to feel somewhat guilty for desiring some time alone and new adventures. He even feels "a sort of chivalry" toward her as well, a sense that he must be courteous and generous as a man would be toward a woman for whom he cared.
It is likely her status as a widow, someone who must be both mother and father to Jerry, that prompts the extent to which she fears smothering him or, alternately, seeming to neglect him. "She was determined to be neither possessive nor lacking in devotion." Keeping him too close would prevent him from developing properly and could lead to his resentment of her. Giving him too much freedom could be dangerous or make it seem like she doesn't love him as much as she does. It's a tough age for a boy without a father.