This quote from Kate Atkinson's Life After Life poignantly illustrates the subtle dynamics of identity and roles within a household. The way the characters refer to Mrs. Glover highlights how titles and names are intertwined with perceptions and personal relationships. Mrs. Glover's preference to be called by her full name rather than just 'Cook' seems to confer on her a status beyond her official role, a subtle affirmation of her individuality and importance in the household. This insistence on a proper name rather than just a job descriptor underlines her irreplaceability — she is more than just a servant, but someone whose identity and presence are honored and acknowledged.

Conversely, Sylvie's stubbornness in continuing to call her 'Cook' reveals a tension between affection, habit, and perhaps a reflection of how children perceive the world differently from adults. This resistance to the grown-up formality may suggest a deeper bond that transcends titles, or alternatively, a simpler view of individuals as they once were. It also echoes themes of memory and identity, central to the narrative of Life After Life, where the past is revisited and reinterpreted.

Ultimately, this small detail contains rich symbolism: names confer respect and recognition, and the way we choose to address others reflects our understanding of their role and worth. Mrs. Glover’s preference and Sylvie’s defiance highlight how names and roles shape relationships and social dynamics, both personal and hierarchical. It leaves the reader contemplating the power of language in defining human connections and the subtle ways we claim our place in others’ lives.