The song “Oranges and Lemons” is a symbol of hope and strength, and most importantly a reminder of family. Big Joe always sings the song to himself for comfort, so it ends up comforting Tommo and Charlie too, because it reminds them of Big Joe and their home. The song also becomes a symbol of strength and solidarity for the Peaceful family, because it allows them to feel connected as a unit when they sing it. An early example is when the Colonel comes to the Peaceful cottage to try and fire Charlie for stealing his old dog (whom the Colonel was planning to shoot the next day), but is shown up by Mrs. Peaceful, who pays for the dog so that it is technically no longer stolen. As he leaves, the whole family sings “Oranges and Lemons” in their collective victory, and in defiance of the Colonel, making sure to sing loud enough that he will be able to hear them on his way out.
Later, Charlie and Tommo sing the song as they leave for the First World War in an effort to comfort themselves in their fear. It connects them not only to each other, but also to the family they have left behind, reminding them to be strong for everyone’s sake. Most importantly, just before Charlie is executed, he and Tommo sing the song together. It reassures them both and affords Charlie the courage to face his death. At the moment of Charlie’s execution itself, both boys sing “Oranges and Lemons” at the same time, knowing that they are connected because of this. It is all they can do in the face of Charlie’s inevitable fate, but it seems to offer both some comfort and strength.
“Oranges and Lemons” Quotes in Private Peaceful
They tell me he walked out with a smile on his face as if he were going for an early-morning stroll. They tell me that he refused the hood, and that they thought he was singing when he died.