I grip the edge of the table. It’s not fair that I have to…
““I grip the edge of the table. It’s not fair that I have to upend my life because Yaqui is bloodthirsty. But so what? Think of how unfairly things turned out or Ma with my father – and how she survived anyway. And how about Joey and his mom? Is it fair to be seventeen and on a bus by yourself to get away from your family? Run away if you have to, he told me.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A young person confronts unfair circumstances and decides to escape to survive, questioning justice and resilience.
In simple terms: Facing injustice, a teen chooses to run away for safety.
Key Takeaway
Consider when escape is necessary for survival.
Themes
adolescence
family
justice
survival
escape
Mood
anxious
determined
hopeful
Type
narrative
reflective
emotional
When to use this quote
- family conflict
- abuse
- runaway teens
- seeking independence
Key Concepts
resilience
agency
moral dilemma
Questions to Reflect On
- Is running away always the best solution?
- What support could change the outcome?
A Different Perspective
Escaping may create new risks and unresolved trauma.