In Freewill, Will is engaged in a pretty epic battle with the despair that lives inside him. But as hopeless as his thoughts can sound—and they really can get pretty freaking pessimistic—he still holds onto a glimmer of hope. How do we know? Because for all his naysaying, he continues to question. So as much as he considers the meaninglessness of his own existence, he also questions the validity of this thinking—he doesn't fully believe himself. And this? This is hope. And in the end, it finally blooms, pushing the darkness out of Will and ushering in some much-needed light.
Questions About Dreams, Hopes, and Plans
- Where does Will's hope come from during his darker periods in the book? Is there anyone or anything that consistently provides him some?
- Does Will ever lose hope completely? How can you tell? Use the text to support your answer.
- What is the difference between hope and faith? How about hope and certainty?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Will is more hopeful than he lets on.
Will struggles intensely to maintain hope.