On the Waterfront Family Quotes

How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from On the Waterfront.

Quote #7

CHARLEY: Oh I had some bets down for you. You saw some money.

TERRY: You don't understand. I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I coulda been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am, let's face it. It was you, Charley.

Charley took away Terry's chance at leading an amazing life—all so he could make money. It shows that he was only thinking about his own greed, not about other people. This helps convince Charley to let Terry escape, since he knows he owes it to him.