The idea or theme of freedom also appears to be explored in the story. Again this inaction would suggest a paralysis.

There is also the fact that Father Flynn wanted (at some stage) to visit the old home where he was born (in Irishtown), though never got the opportunity. Again this inability or inaction of Father Flynn would suggest a sense of paralysis.

The reader also learns that the narrator had to prepare Father Flynn’s snuff for him, he was unable to do so himself. By giving Old Cotter an opinion, Joyce may be suggesting that the narrator, because he is following the teachings of Father Flynn, is likewise paralysed. Old Cotter feels that the narrator should be like other children, free to play rather than restricting or confining himself to the practices and teachings of the Church which the narrator spends his time learning from Father Flynn. Also the narrator does not appear to spend any time playing with his peers, despite Old Cotter considering it important. There is the obvious fact that Father Flynn has suffered a third stroke, which leaves him paralysed (Joyce may also be suggesting that not only is Father Flynn paralysed but that the Catholic Church too is paralysed). Taken from his Dubliners collection the story is narrated in the first person by an young unnamed boy and after first reading the story the reader realises that Joyce may be exploring the theme of paralysis. In The Sisters by James Joyce we have the theme of paralysis and freedom.

The sisters james joyce