Explanation:
A major issue that is very prevalent at the beginning of the book is death. specifically the death of Frank's siblings. Margaret, and the twins, Oliver and Eugene. This leads Frank's father, Malochy to delve deeper in his alcoholism. An example of this is when Margaret is dying, Frank's father "has that whiskey smell" on him as they arrive at the hospital.
*Quote found on page 36 in Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt.