How we cite our quotes: (Section.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #10
He touched the silver netted top of the microphone and he could tell that the power was off. He swallowed. Before he could change his mind, he began to recite his poem from memory. He felt the first few words catch in his mouth and then they rolled out of him as easy as could be.
He did it quickly, but he did it. When he was finished, he could hear the rush of blood in his ears. He felt light, as if he weighed next to nothing.
He scanned the crowd for Mama, and he saw her instantly. She was right at the foot of the stage. Their eyes connected, and he knew that she'd been watching him. She'd heard him, even without the microphone on. She was smiling and nodding.
Explosions like little volcanoes were going off inside him. He felt wonderful. Maybe he'd never felt better. (4.5.72-75)
So Billy really wanted to recite his poem by heart, but we're sorry to report that he fumbled that one. Yep, he forgets every word and has to use to use the printed copy. But later he gets the chance to prove to himself that he can recite that poem like a champ, and he gets to show Mama, too, which makes victory all the sweeter. Billy's feeling so great that it has us wondering if this accidental goal ends up being way better than his original one.