Characterization

"In fact, the harder he tried, the more laughable his efforts turned out. So before long, Tommy had gone back to his original defence, producing work that seemed deliberately childish, work that said he couldn't care less." pg. 20

     Throughout the second chapter, the reader is given a glimpse into the personalities of several friends seemingly close to Kathy H., Tommy being the most prominent figure. At first it seemed easy to classify Kahty H.'s decripition of her friend as direct. With his constant tantrums and slacking, Tommy could have easily been characterized as an immature preteen  with a social downfall. As the storyline progresses however, the reader witnesses Tommy grow out of his social clashes. His subpar work continues, but he seems to have escaped the confusing behaviors of other adolescents. Later, he tells Kathy of his discussion with Miss Lucy, who hints that the kids may not be being told all they should. At this point, Tommy's characterization starts to become indirect. He himself is becoming more aware of the complexties and untolds of his surroundings, and all the hints at his revelations show he is becoming a more complex character. I suspect the hints of the new Tommy will continue, leading to a smarter and more plot-revealing character.