Early Childhood:
* Neglect and Abuse: The story begins with David's early childhood marked by extreme neglect and physical abuse from his mother. This establishes the core of the story's tragedy and David's struggle for survival.
* The "Box": David is often confined to a small, dark box as punishment, creating a sense of isolation and fear. This becomes a symbol of his childhood torment.
* The "Cellar": The cellar, a cold, damp space, becomes another place of confinement and punishment. It represents the oppressive nature of David's home life.
* The "Basement": David is often forced to sleep in the basement, exposed to the cold and dampness. This highlights the lack of basic needs being met and the harshness of his living conditions.
* Hunger and Starvation: David is often left hungry, sometimes going days without food. This emphasizes the extreme neglect he experiences.
* The "Cat": David finds solace and companionship in a stray cat, symbolizing a small source of comfort in an otherwise bleak environment.
* The "Knife": David's mother forces him to eat with a knife because she believes he is trying to steal food. This illustrates the irrational and abusive nature of her behavior.
Later Childhood:
* David's Fight for Survival: As David gets older, he begins to understand the severity of his situation and fights for his own survival. He learns to steal food and find ways to cope with the abuse.
* The "Neighbor's Kindness": David receives some kindness from a neighbor, offering a glimmer of hope and a reminder that there is some good in the world.
* David's Escape: David, desperate for a better life, runs away from home and starts to wander on his own. This signifies his attempt to break free from the abusive environment.
* The "Police Encounter": David's encounter with the police after he is caught stealing food highlights the cycle of abuse and hardship he faces.
These events are crucial because they set the foundation for the rest of David's journey. They establish the severity of the abuse he endures, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his desperate search for a better life. The first half of the book lays the groundwork for the emotional and psychological scars that David carries with him throughout his life.