What does the novel "Wise Children" have to tell us about paternity and maternity?

In the novel Wise Children by Angela Carter, two illegitimate twins (Dora and Nora) are cared for and raised by Grandma Chance, who more or less plays the role of their mother. Carter criticises the irresponsibility of fathers through her choice of narrator, Dora, whose father, Melchior denies the twins as his children and regards them as his nieces. His selfish and insensitive nature is evident as his eyes that "looked at us but did …

…own child'" are Perry's wise words of advice to Melchior on taking up on their responsibility. An important lesson is learnt by Dora and Nora as they are given a tremendous birthday present from Perry: the twins of Gareth, another absent father where women are left with the responsibility of their hands. Nora declares that "'they'll both be wise children, all right"', as they are going to tell them the truth of their parents.