Genre
Novel
Setting and Context
The novel is set in Melbourne, Australia.
Narrator and Point of View
Third-person narrative
Tone and Mood
Sad, pessimistic, disheartening
Protagonist and Antagonist
The protagonist of the story is Ari.
Major Conflict
The major conflict is when Ari decides that drugs, sex and masturbation are important components in his life.
Climax
Ari's parents' give up on him and leave him for the world to discipline him. Consequently, Ari's parents resolve to go to church and pray.
Foreshadowing
Aggressive sexual desire foreshadows Ari's bleak future because he prefers same-sex orientation, drugs, and masturbation.
Understatement
Ari's tragic life is understated. For instance, Ari does not realize the dark future ahead of him even after realizing that his parents are disappointed.
Allusions
The story alludes to gay culture and drug abuse that disrupt the lives of the youths.
Imagery
Sex and drug imagery is prevalent throughout the book. The author provides intense images showing how the lives of Ari and his friends are ruined due to aggressive sex and drug addiction.
Paradox
The main paradox is that after having sex with Joe’s sister, Ari offends her by telling her that he wishes she were Joe. Joe’s sister instantly realizes that she has had sexual intercourse with a gay man.
Parallelism
Ari’s life expectations are parallel to Joe’s intention to get married.
Metonymy and Synecdoche
N/A
Personification
Drugs and sex are personified as bad influences that destroy the lives of the youths.
