Prima Donna
On page 36, we are introduced to Francie's nickname given to her by her father.
"Francie smiled happily, pleased at his using the nickname he had given her when, as a baby, he swore that her crying was as varied and ad tuneful as an opera singer's range."
According to Wikipedia:
Originally used in opera companies, "prima donna" is Italian for "first lady". The term was used to designate the leading female singer in the opera company, the person to whom the prime roles would be give. the prima donna was normally, but not necessarily, a soprano. The corresponding term for the male lead (almost always a tenor) is "primo uomo".
- A soprano is a singing voice with a high singing range from approximately middle C (C4) to "high A" (A5) in choral music, or to "soprano C" (C6, two octaves above middle C) or higher in operatic music.
- A tenor is a type of male singing voice and is the highest male voice within a modal register.
This nickname symbolizes Johnny's love for his daughter. I believe this because most people associate a baby crying with a piercing noise that they wish would stop. However, Johnny associated Francie's crying with music to his ears. It also meant that Francie was Johnny's "leading lady".
-Danielle
This was interesting research, Danielle. I was unsure of what Johnny's nickname for Francie truly meant/symbolized. Now, I truly agree with your interpretation of Johnny's nickname for Francie; as it clearly shows a symbol of love. In addition, this shows a spark embedded in the strong bond Johnny and Francie had.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your interpretation also... I didnt get what the nickname actually meant for Francie but after reading this it really makes sense now.
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