Summary

In Chapter 5, "Bud," first person narrator, Bud, describes his family life. He was never close with his politically conservative parents. His relationship with his father was particularly strained. These dynamics weakened his connection with his siblings, Cecie and Dillon.

To rebel, Bud would make political declarations his parents disagreed with. His father's rage and violence inspired Bud's frequent attempts to run away. After graduating from a "stuffy prep school," Bud moved to New York with his girlfriend, Lizzie (153). They had two roommates, Dale and Betsy. In time, Bud realized he needed a purpose, and started a taxi business. Things went well until Bud betrayed Lizzie and slept with Dale.

Bud bought "a once-white Volkswagen Beetle," and moved into "a group house" in Vermont (158). One night the house was robbed. Bud started thinking about his own monetary concerns. He had stolen a few times...