How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #13
"Your father means well," James says. "And when you want to tell him what he is afraid to know, he might find a way to approve."
"I tried to talk to Dad," Link says. "But it was pointless. It wouldn't change what he thinks is best."
"It doesn't matter what he thinks is best," James says. "It's what you think.
"Right," Link says. "What I think matters to him."
"You matter to him," James says. "You underestimate what that is worth." (14.71-75)
"Talking to _____ is pointless" is a common teenage refrain. There are many reasons why people think talking about stuff is worthless, but none of them are valid. Communication is such a valuable commodity, but you never notice it until the lack of communication leads to a total breakdown. Sure, Link might not be able to change his dad's mind at first, but let's put it this way: Nothing will change until he talks to his dad, no matter what.
Quote #14
"You can make me go," Link says, "but you can't force me to talk to anyone. It's a waste."
"Your persistent retreat into silence is precisely why you are going into therapy," Mom says.
"What, all of a sudden silence in this house is a bad thing?" Link asks. "When the hell did this happen?"
"Your language is unnecessary," Dad says. (15.6-9)
Thankfully, Mom is finally putting her foot down about opening up lines of communication. It seems like she might be more naturally prone to talking things out, but has let Dad call the shots for a bit too long.
Quote #15
"There is nothing wrong with silence," Mom says, pouring her tea with one hand, holding her drink with the other. "It's not a bad way to express yourself. What concerns us about your silence is that you are not sure what you are expressing with it."
"I'm sure," Link says. "I know what I am expressing."
"I'm not convinced you do," Mom says. "It's a bit too loud for you to be so certain."
"What will it take for you to believe I know what my silence means?" Link asks.
"When it's not so hostile," Mom says. "I don't mind the hostility aimed at us, but so much of it is landing on you." (15.20-24)
Geez, Mom, where were you with this knowledge-bomb six chapters ago? It seems like Mom has a good handle on the situation—so why has it taken her this long to do anything about it? Do you think it is distraction from being so busy at work? An attempt to keep the peace with her authoritarian husband? To avoid causing Link to pull away even farther? Why is everyone so scared to talk to each other?