How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
[Tyrone] tries to act like he's not even interested in school, like there's no point in studying hard, or dreaming about tomorrow, or bothering to graduate. He's got his reasons. I keep on him about going to school, though, saying I need the company. Besides, I tell him, if he drops out and gets a J.O.B., he won't have any time to work on his songs. That always gets to him. Tyrone might convince everybody else that he's all through with dreaming, but I know he wants to be a big hip-hop star. He's just afraid he won't live long enough to do it. Me, I hardly ever think about checking out. I'm more worried about figuring what I want to do if I live. (1.1)
Wow—Wesley and Tyrone really aren't thinking too far ahead in the future. They're worried about surviving one day to the next, while other kids are planning for college. It's tough to dream when you're worried about getting gunned down.
Quote #2
School ain't nothin' but a joke. My moms don't want to hear that, but if it weren't for Wesley and my other homeys, I wouldn't even be here, aiight? These white folk talking 'bout some future, telling me I need to be planning for some future—like I got one! And Raynard agreeing, like he's smart enough to know. From what I hear, that boy can't hardly read! Anyway, it's them white folk that get me with this future mess […] Life is cold. Future? What I got is right now, right here, spending time with my homeys. Wish there was some future to talk about. I could use me some future. (3.1, 2)
Yup, the future is bleak. Tyrone doesn't think he has much of a chance out there because of the color of his skin. Is he right, though? Do a little research on the ways in which race and poverty impact life paths.
Quote #3
I'm lucky Mr. Ward leaves brushes and watercolor paper for me to use, though I ain't gonna tell him that. It's none of his business I can't afford fancy brushes and watercolor paper at home. Anyway, it's good for him to help out the future Diego Rivera. He knows I'm the real deal. Didn't he come to me for advice on how to decorate the classroom? The paper frames were my idea. Good work belongs in a gallery, I told him. Especially if it's mine. (8.9)
When Raul dreams, he dreams big. No one is going to tell him that he's not going to be a famous artist one day. Keep moving on up, Raul—we're right behind you.