Identity

Green and Levithan use identity as a theme to explore how the characters are struggling to accept themselves. Grayson grapples with his identity because has a very low view of his self-value. When he first meets Tiny Cooper, Grayson says, “why should i like myself? nobody else does” (147). Grayson’s poor mental health is likely an inciting factor in his tendency to draw into himself and close himself off from the world. As a result, he avoids forming superficial relationships and often treats people cruelly. This makes him resent himself. However, after he gains a positive relationship with Tiny, he becomes a bit more accepting of himself. He admits to being gay and comes out to his family and friends. This first step opens him up to more friendships and a slightly more optimistic outlook for his life.

Will’s struggle with his identity stems from...