* It symbolizes his confinement and isolation: The home, far from being a safe haven, becomes a prison for Dave. It represents the physical and emotional restrictions he faces under his mother's abuse. The reader experiences this isolation through Dave's eyes, understanding the claustrophobia and helplessness he feels.
* It emphasizes the contrast between childhood dreams and reality: The home should be a place of love, care, and security. However, Dave's home is the antithesis of this. This stark contrast intensifies the tragedy of his situation and highlights the profound violation of his childhood.
* It allows for the portrayal of escalating abuse: The home becomes the stage for the escalating abuse Dave endures. The reader witnesses the progression of the abuse, from neglect and emotional abuse to physical violence, all within the confines of this once-familiar space.
* It creates a sense of familiarity and alienation: The reader can easily relate to the concept of home. However, the author's portrayal of his home transforms it into a place of fear and dread. This creates a jarring sense of alienation, reflecting Dave's own emotional disconnect from his family.
* It emphasizes the importance of home as a symbol of safety: The home, in its ideal form, should offer protection and love. By depicting the complete opposite, the author highlights the profound importance of a safe and loving home in a child's development.
Ultimately, using his childhood home as the central setting allows Dave Pelzer to vividly portray the horrors of his abuse, his emotional struggles, and the devastating impact it had on his young life. It becomes a symbol of his suffering, highlighting the stark contrast between the idealized concept of home and the harsh reality he endured.