Coming of Age

David is the epitome of the coming of age theme in that he learns vital lessons through the events of the summer of 1948 and his new knowledge helps him mature dramatically. The first of these lessons is the realization of the importance of the family name and how it impacts him even when he doesn't seek to use it. Because his grandfather was a sheriff and now his father is the sheriff, the family name is connected with power. In addition, the Haydens are - at least by the standards of the region and the people of the time - wealthy. David comes to realize that this combination means that he has a level of respect and awe from the people of the town though he's done nothing personally to earn or command it. The maturing part of this realization comes when David suddenly becomes aware...