The Silent Boy

Animals represent innocence and gentleness throughout the text. We do not see any predatory animals depicted, only sweet and docile farm animals and pets. Adult humans are the perpetrators of violence against the innocent. For example, Jacob’s father butchers some of his farm animals, and Jacob cannot stand to take part: “It troubles my pa that Jacob runs and hides at butchering time. He feels them animals to be his friends. He can’t be there when their time comes, and it angers Pa” (96). The townspeople also commit more abstract acts of violence against the innocent, such as when they describe Jacob in hurtful terms like “imbecile” and use him as a scapegoat, blaming him for the mill fire when he wasn’t even there because they know he cannot defend himself.

Conversely, Jacob is frequently depicted with horses, soothing them and almost seeming to communicate with them. He also has a dog that he raised from a puppy when its own mother couldn’t care for it. His Pup loves him unconditionally and follows him wherever he goes. Katy and Jacob form their friendship when Jacob presents her with a beautiful kitten. Because animals do not speak, we are invited to compare the silent Jacob with these creatures.