Gloria's ALS

Gloria’s ALS symbolizes the epitome of obstacles Corey must contend with. It is Gloria’s illness, but her ALS changes Corey’s life completely and forces him to take care for her over his own needs and desires. As a symbol, Gloria’s ALS prompts the reader to consider the other challenges Corey must contend with through his adolescence. In his own words, Corey says of Gloria’s illness, “This is my fight now” (273). Gloria’s illness is one challenge Corey faces, but it symbolizes the synthesis of the other difficulties, too: poverty, Leonard, Adrian, identity.

Tom Hibbard

Tom is a character, but he symbolizes Corey’s ideal of masculinity as well. Tom works construction, managing his own business; he is strong, respected, and behaves how Corey believes men should. Corey substitutes Tom as a paternal presence in his life in Leonard’s place...