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Why is the short story called “Clay”?
The story’s title is a reference to the clay that Maria finds during the party game. While a blindfolded Maria never realizes what she has touched, the partygoers (and the reader) understand that she made contact with a death omen.
Why is Joe so emotional at the end of the text?
While it is never explicitly stated, Joe is clearly moved by Maria’s song because it makes him nostalgic for his past, when Maria was his and Alphy’s nurse. Perhaps Joe is moved because he is upset that he and his brother are no longer speaking.
What is barmbrack?
Barmbrack is a seasonal spiced bread. Maria serves slices of barmbrack to the women that are housed at her place of work.
What does the ring represent in “Clay”?
The ring is meant to represent romance and marriage. Maria notably does not pick up the ring during the party game, which symbolizes that she will remain unmarried.
Who is the “poor old Balfe” that Joe mentions at the end of the text?
“Poor old Balfe” is a reference to Michael William Balfeand. Balfeand was an Irish composer who wrote the song “I Dreamt that I Dwelt,” which Maria sings at the party.
