How we cite our quotes: (Preface if applicable, Paragraph)
Quote #4
Oh, if I had had a friend at this moment, a friend in an attic room, dreaming by candlelight and with a violin lying ready at his hand! (18)
This thought of Harry's shows us that he isn't always such a hermit because he likes it; in fact, he sometimes really wishes for some company. Later Harry will learn that this kind of wish is accessible to him through the Magic Theater.
Quote #5
Solitude is independence. It had been my wish and with the years I had attained it. (19)
Very interesting. It seems that Harry isn't a loner just because people don't like him or because he doesn't know how to make friends. This quote shows us that he actually wanted to be alone, and worked toward keeping people away from him.
Quote #6
Independently and alone, he decided what to do and to leave undone. […] But in the midst of the freedom he had attained Harry suddenly became aware that his freedom was a death and that he stood alone. (38)
Oops. Another case of "be careful what you wish for." Previously Harry equated solitude with independence, but can you think of some exceptions to that rule? What is the price of independence? Do you think that giving up some of your freedom might be worthwhile if you get some help from your friends out of the bargain?