The boys, separated when babies, have very different outcomes in their lives determined by the fateful moment when one was given to Mrs Lyons.

Mrs Johnstone’s life is one of poverty as a single mother unable to pay bills, which contrasts with that of the wealthy Mrs Lyons.

Different types of education are foregrounded as Edward goes to a boarding school, leading to good prospects, while Mickey’s schooling leads to poor jobs and redundancy.

Linda’s marriage to Mickey appears happy, like Mrs Johnstone’s songs, but the reality of poverty, crime and drugs destroys her love.

The final tragic fight between Mickey and Edward is caused by Linda leaving Mickey for Edward, which Mickey views as a betrayal of their friendship.