The Zoo Story Rules and Order Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (line number)

Quote #7

Yes, that was very funny, Peter. I wouldn't have expected it. (200)

Jerry is acknowledging that Peter has broken out of his box—or is he being mean and patronizing and sneering at him for being such a fuddy-duddy? Probably both.

Quote #8

I can't move over any more, and stop hitting me. What's the matter with you? (209)

Jerry is being illogical and pushing Peter off of his ordered bench. What's wrong with him is that he doesn't abide by the rules—and also that he's a jerk.

Quote #9

Besides, I see no reason why I should give up this bench. I sit on this bench almost every Sunday afternoon, in good weather. It's secluded here; there's never anyone sitting here, so I have it all to myself. (217)

Peter does the same thing almost every week; his life fits into a benchy groove. He sees that as giving him rights; the bench is his because that's the way he's organized his life. Jerry doesn't buy it, though.