How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Here, at least, if we are hungry, cold, and filthy, we are those things while we are free," Peter had said. "We are alive and we are free." (6.96)
Hey, that's more than you could say about most Russian citizens. Peter has spent his entire life being abused by people who are more powerful than him, which makes him even more appreciative of what little freedom he's able to carve out for himself and his friends.
Quote #8
A sound like rotted wood breaking, and Miska fell. Without another word, the director turned and walked out, slamming the door. (10.14)
This is power in a nutshell. The director didn't feel threatened by Miska. He didn't feel intimidated, and he didn't feel frightened. He simply realized that he needed to show Miska—and all of the other boys—that he's the boss around here. What a turd.
Quote #9
"And while you're at it," Peter shouted, "tell him that if he sends me to the police, I will tell the commissars a thing or two that he has done now and in the past." (10.40)
Although the book never says it directly, we're pretty sure Peter is implying that the director abuses the boys at his orphanage. We don't need to delve into the details of this potential abuse, but we think it's worth mentioning as yet another example of how power can be used for evil. This one is especially heartbreaking, though.