The Oedipal Complex

The story examines the Oedipal Complex of a boy's obsession with winning his mother's affection from his father. D.H Lawrence has examined this theme in his novels before such as Sons and Lover. Hence, a reader with previous knowledge of his work cannot help feeling the theme is very personal.

Like the main character from Sons and Lovers, Paul is the name of the main character of the Rocking Horse Winner. Paul, as well as his other siblings, suffers from a lack of affection from their mother. She has fallen out of love with her husband and hence has no connection to their children. In this regard, Paul asking his mother about why the family is so poor is indirectly and perhaps unconsciously, inquiring why his mother does not love him as she should.

From their conversation he finds out the one thing he needs...