Manifestation of Fear: The birth of the mutated child within the domestic space serves as a physical manifestation of the fear and anxiety surrounding atomic warfare. "She had known, of course, that the baby was going to be different" (Merril, 1948, p. 5). This quote shows the mother's anticipation of the abnormality, symbolizing the public's fear of the potential consequences of nuclear weapons. What does the birth of the mutated child symbolize?
1) The fear and anxiety surrounding atomic warfare
2) The potential consequences of nuclear weapons
3) The anticipation of abnormality
4) The birth of a mutated child