The Man Who Was Almost a Man Coming of Age Quotes

This brief moment brings all of Dave's contradictions into high relief. He's "husky" like a man, but "shy" like a child, and he wants to buy a gun, but he can't even talk to his mom. Although Dave believes that he's on the cusp of adulthood, his actions reveal the complete opposite.

Well, this might explain a few things. Instead of pushing Dave to take on more responsibilities—even if he fails once or twice along the way—Mrs. Saunders treats Dave like a child and babies him. How can Dave become a real adult if no one teaches him how?

As if his accidental killing of Jenny wasn't enough, Dave's phony story only emphasizes his immaturity. He's like a child trying to get out of time-out.