Question

Why does the mother send Emily away the first time in "I Stand Here Ironing"?

she is sick of her
she has a new husband
she can't find work and can't afford to keep her
she wants her to get to know her father

Answer 1

Emily was sent away to live with relatives because her mother could not work and take care of her at the same time.

Hope this helps :)

Answer 2

I would say C. she can't find work and can't afford to keep her

Because the only reason the husband left was because he couldn't stand the poverty they were living in, and at a young age she sent her to him but then got her back at age 2.

I hope this helps!