How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"A good kill," he said. "As fast as your father."
"I'm not my father."
"Not as skilled." Tool shrugged. "But the potential is there…Blood tells. You have good potential."
Nailer shuddered at the thought of mirroring his father. "I'm not like him," he said again. (14.64-67)
Tool often serves as the philosopher of the novel, and here he talks about how blood "tells." Genes are important and can influence a person's life (which Tool knows well because he's a genetic mutant), but intentions also matter, especially when Nailer tries so hard not to be his father.
Quote #8
Tool studied him. "So. You bite like a mastiff and never let go. Just like your father, then." Nailer started to retort, but Tool waved him silent. "Don't argue the obvious. Lopez never let anything stand in his way, either." (19.79)
Even though Nailer wants to reject his ties to his father, Tool reminds him that even the worst parents can have good qualities. Nailer is tenacious and ambitious like his father, neither of which are necessarily bad qualities to have. It's what Nailer does with them that matters.
Quote #9
"Scientists created me from the genes of dogs and tigers and men and hyenas, but people always believe I am only their dog." Tool's eyes flicked to the captain, and his sharp teeth gleamed in a brief smile. "When the fighting comes, don't deny your slaughter nature. You are no more Richard Lopez than I am obedient hound. Blood is not destiny, no matter what others believe." (19.79)
Tool is making the point that we are more than where we come from. Nailer isn't his father—he exhibits compassion and empathy—just like Tool is more than what the scientists created him to be. We can rise above the lowly roots we have. (Bonus: Tie this to the theme of Society and Class.)