Burned-Ellen Hopkins But on that night pg. 64; Dad staggered in, eyes eerily lit. The corners of his mouth foaminh spit. His demons planned an overnight stay. Mom motioned to take the girls away. hide them in their tooms, safe in their beds. We closed the doors, covered our heads, as if blankets could mute the sounds of his blows or we could silence her screams beneath our pillows. I hugged the littlest ones close to my chest, til the beat of my heart lulled them to rest. Only then did i let myself cry. Only then did i let myself wonder why. Mom didn't fight back, didn't defend, didn't confess to family or friend. Had Dad's demons claimed her soul? or was this, as well, a women's role?