Al Capone Does My Shirts Duty Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"Change is hard. It's hard for you, it's hard for me, it's murder on your sister." His voice breaks.

"You heard her screaming, Dad—"

My dad's hand go up to block my words. "Look, son," he interrupts, "I can't talk about this anymore." (5.54-55)

Moose feels a real sense of duty toward Natalie, and his sense of duty tells him that they shouldn't send Natalie away from the people she loves. But his dad has a different idea about it. He knows it's hard to let her go away to school, but he feels that they have to put her well being above their feelings.

Quote #5

Emergency alert! Emergency alert! Moose Flanagan played for a sucker right before his very eyes. "Yes, sir." My voice squeaks high like a rodent's. I glance sideways at Piper. (6.60)

Here's what Moose doesn't like about his strong sense of duty: Sometimes it makes him a victim. How are these connected? Well, if you're the kind of guy who does what you're told… then people can take advantage of you. People like Piper.

Quote #6

Theresa signs long and loud, like this isn't even worth answering. "You have a note from your mom." She hands it to me.

It says, Dear Moose, I've gone to Bea Trixle's to get a perm. Make sure to get your dad up at six o'clock. We're going to the Officers' Club for a party at 6:30. (9.4-5)

Duty calls when Moose comes home with his friends and finds a note from his mom. She's out getting her hair done, so Moose has to put his friends aside and remember to wake his dad up. His family needs his help a lot—duty is not an easy, once-in-a-while thing.