She had debated, in the frivolity of the beginning, whether to build a hole or a tower; a hole, because she was fond of hobbits, or a tower - well, a tower for many reasons, but chiefly because she liked spiral staircases.
The character in Keri Hulme's "The Bone People" finds herself contemplating a critical decision at the start of her journey. She weighs the choice between constructing a hole or a tower. The idea of a hole resonates with her love for hobbits, symbolizing a connection to a simpler, more grounded existence. This reflects her affection for comfort and familiarity.
On the other hand, the possibility of building a tower captures her imagination, particularly due to her fascination with spiral staircases. This suggests a desire for ascent, complexity, and perhaps a longing for something beyond the ordinary. The two options represent different aspects of her personality and ambitions, highlighting her internal conflict between stability and aspiration.
