Goodbye, Columbus Language and Communication Quotes

Roth really captures first phone call anxiousness here. This moment also helps develop Neil's character because we know he is totally nervous, but still daring enough to call with no hesitation. Brenda is sure to be aware of this, too.

Through Doris's comment, we are aware of how Neil and Brenda look to those outside their magic circle of love. As Doris points out, Neil's devotion seems a bit extreme. Doris's comment also expresses a bit of natural jealously over their romance.

This is the second time Neil has apologized for making "nasty" remarks to Brenda. It's also the last that we can see. Interestingly, after she tells him to stop apologizing to her, he does. Maybe he didn't really mean it.