How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #1
One of these days he was going to get a gun and practice shooting, then they couldn't talk to him as though he were a little boy. (1)
This passage reveals two important facts: Dave wants to be treated like a man, and Dave thinks that having physical power over someone is what it means to be a man. That's a pretty twisted viewpoint, though based on his lived experiences, we understand where it comes from. Regardless, this desire becomes the main motivation for Dave's coming-of-age experience.
Quote #2
Ahm ol ernough to hava gun. Ahm seventeen. Almost a man. (1)
Even Dave has to admit that he's not quite a man yet. Although we might disagree with him about owning a gun, we can't dispute that he could use a bit more respect.
Quote #3
"Your ma lettin you have your own money now?"
"Shucks. Mistah Joe, Ahm gittin t be a man like anybody else!" (9-10)
Here's a pro-tip from your friendly neighborhood Shmoopers: If you still ask your mom for money, you're not all the way in charge of your own life. The same goes for saying shucks. At this point, it's clear that Dave has a ways to go before he's grown.