“Ms. Potter might have been right, but I realized that sometimes, being right isn’t enough.”
Ms. Potter's statement implies that she provided some insight to the protagonist, potentially regarding their hatred towards Indy. The protagonist may have initially believed that their rage was warranted and that their interpretation of Indy's behavior was correct. However, the protagonist has realized that holding the correct viewpoint does not always present them with a clear plan of action. This quote expresses the protagonist's battle to manage their emotions as well as the complexities of the scenario. It implies that there may be more to consider than simply being right such as understanding Indy's motivations or finding a solution to the problem that extends beyond wrath and retribution. It highlights the protagonist's internal conflict and their recognition that resolving the situation requires more than just being on the right side of an argument.
“I chuckled as I went, reminded that my mom had once told me that people are sometimes drawn to what hurts them more than what’s good for them.”
The narrator laughs because they remember their mother's warning about people being drawn to things that will bring them pain rather than things that will benefit them. The quote implies that the narrator is aware that his actions such as beating up Corey and stealing his money are not in his best interests. Despite this understanding, they feel forced to approach the issue and face the potential consequences, showing a level of self-destructive conduct in situations that may cause them harm. The narrator's giggle could alternatively be taken as knowledge of their contradiction. They find it hilarious that they are knowingly stepping into a potentially dangerous situation despite being aware of the hazards involved. Overall, this quotation illustrates the narrator's internal turmoil and readiness to engage in things that may cause them grief or trouble, implying a complicated and possibly unstable psyche.
“We all are in one way or another, Tate. It just depends on whose glasses you’re looking through.”
Aggy's statement implies that everyone has defects, inadequacies, or characteristics of their nature that could be considered unpleasant or undesirable. She indicates that no one is perfect and that we all make errors or demonstrate selfishness in some way. This acknowledgment displays sensitivity and respect for human flaws. The second portion of the quotation "It just depends on whose glasses you're looking through" emphasizes the subjective nature of assessment. Our perceptions of others are shaped by our viewpoints, biases, and experiences. What seems to one person as a fault may be perceived as a distinct characteristic or quality by another. In this context, Aggy is indicating that before characterizing someone as "dumb" or "selfish" we should evaluate the lens through which we observe their activities. Aggy's personal experience with her husband's alcoholism most certainly affected her perspective, prompting her to adopt a more compassionate and forgiving attitude.
“And although my dad told me that some things are better talked about than fought over, there was no talking to Will. There was only action. At least he and I saw things the same way in that respect. Action. Put up or shut up.”
This phrase illustrates the protagonist's perspective as well as the nature of the issue he is confronted with. The narrator mentions his father's advice, implying that his father believes that conflict may be resolved by communication and discourse rather than violent confrontation. However, the protagonist admits that such an approach would be inappropriate in his relationship with Will. He recognizes that there is no room for discussion with someone who is determined to harm his brother. The statement "there was no talking to Will" underlines the futility of attempting to reason with Will and implies that the only way to deal with him is to act. By emphasizing the need for action, the protagonist reveals his determination and willingness to stand up for his brother even if it means resorting to violence.
