In Hans Christian Andersen’s poignant tale, ‘The Little Match Girl,’ the girl refrains from returning home because of a fear of her father’s anger. The story is set on a harsh, cold New Year’s Eve, where the girl, wearing nothing but rags, is tasked with selling matches to help support her family.
Her home symbolizes a place of warmth and comfort, yet it is also a place filled with the fear of punishment and rejection. Earlier in the day, she had not sold any matches and anticipated that her father would beat her for bringing home no money. This fear drives her to stay outside in the freezing cold instead of seeking refuge inside.
Moreover, the matches hold a deeper significance for the girl. Each time she lights one, she is transported to visions of warmth and love, reminding her of the comfort and safety that she longs for but cannot attain. This need for escape from her harsh reality contributes to her decision to remain outside, as she seeks solace in the fleeting warmth of the matches.