How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
That's how Cole felt—he didn't owe anyone anything. Nobody had ever cared for him, so why should he care about anyone else? He wouldn't even be here on this island, injured, if it weren't for other people and their lame ideas. Nothing had been his fault. (9.8)
When he's attacked by Spirit Bear (after trying to kill the creature in the first place), Cole still thinks he's innocent. Nothing that has happened to him is due to his bad decisions; nothing is ever his fault…or so Cole's thinking goes, anyway.
Quote #8
"It's not about supper," said Garvey. "It's about the chip on your shoulder. You still think life is a free ride. You're still blaming the world for everything and looking for the easiest way to get by. It's only been two days, and already you've got your attitude back." (19.17)
Garvey sees right through all of Cole's lies and deception. He knows that Cole's attitude means he hasn't changed and still blames everyone else for his problems instead of accepting responsibility.
Quote #9
Slowly, Cole let go of his ancestors and allowed the stone to become his anger. He knew that he had to quit blaming others, including his father, for his problems. As long as blame still existed, so would his anger. (19.56)
When Cole starts accepting that his life is his responsibility—and that even his father isn't to blame for everything—he also starts healing and moving on. Now that he's aware that every action has a consequence, he'll be more careful.