Why isn't Theo excited about his early college admission? Why does he feel bad that Hobie is excited? And why doesn't he try once he's there? And why not live in the dorm? Most high school students would leap at that opportunity.
Theo enjoys the detailed workings of Hobie's shop Why does he remember so many details about the shop and so few about school?
Why is Theo so upset at the state of the building he used to live in? What does its renovation symbolize?
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Theo is upset when he sees his old building being renovated. The building was a physical reminder of simpler times, when Theo was a child and didn’t have much to worry about. But now it’s being rebuilt. Theo remembers how it used to look, talking about the “bright familiar alley with the sun striking is just right and bouncing gold off the windows” (426), which conveyed warmth and welcoming. But when Theo sees the building as it is now, he sees “a cavern of gravel and concrete hunks” (427). Even the old marble stairs were taken apart. The renovation symbolizes that it’s no longer simple and that that part of his life is over. Since the building is being changed, Theo no longer has the physical reminder. He can’t walk through and go to his old apartment or see any of the old tenants or workers. Each one was a part of him, but they are no longer there. Because of this, Theo becomes very upset.
Theo feels bad that Hobie is excited because it makes him believe that Hobie doesn't want him around. Hobie is really the only person left in Theo's life so the fact that Hobie is excited about his early college admission scares him. It doesn't click in his mind that Hobie is just excited for Theo and is proud of him and what he's accomplished. He probably doesn't realize that Hobie is just happy for him because no one has been happy for Theo in a long time.
Theo doesn't want to live on campus for the same reason he doesn't want to go to the boarding school. He doesn't want to leave Hobie. He doesn't apply to college because he knows he can score a job at the antique shop without outstanding grades,and that's where he wants to work. What's upsetting about the apartment to Theo is that it's one of the last places from his childhood, and before his mothers death, that wouldn't have changed. He can't pretend no time has passed anymore.
When Theo comes across the building where he used to live he is very shocked and very upset. This building was his home, and he loved it there. He says, “And the farther I walked away, the more upset I got, at the loss of one of the few stable and unchanging docking- points in the world that I’d taken for granted: familiar faces, glad greetings…” (427/428). The building was a sense of security in his eyes. It was his childhood “home” and for that reason holds many memories for him especially the ones with his mother and the times they spent together there. It is similar to when your childhood home is sold, it is devastating because many times we are attached to the house we grew up in, it holds memories of laughter, smiles, joy, tears, hard times, and happy times. I’m sure Theo felt a similar way, it was his comfort zone and he didn’t want that gone. This renovation symbolizes that his life will never be as it once was, and that life will continue on despite what events might occur.
I believe that Theo is upset about the building he once lived in because that was where he grew up, that was where all his memories from his childhood were. He specifically wanted to go there to see Goldie and the other doormen; he wanted to talk to them, apologize about not sending them a postcard from Vegas, talk to them as if nothing changed. When he saw that the building was basically gone, he was in shock and in a state of denial, not wanting to believe that it was actually happened. He's upset because that was the place he got to know his mother best and got to experience all the hardships they went through. Then comes back, and it's all gone. The renovated building symbolizes that everything from his old life is gone, that he must move on to be better, just like the building. The world is going to continue to grow around him and he must realize that. On a more depressing note, I believe that Theo seeing the empty, worn down building represents Theo in a way. It show that Theo seems to have nothing left for him, that he himself is worn down. Both his parents are dead, and he lost his one true friend. Also, he made a lot of mistakes and it's hurt him in the long run.
Theo remembers more details of the repair shop than school because he likes the repair shop better than school. Almost every kid doesn't like school. The repair shop was kike a sanctuary for Theo to escape his every day troubles and stresses and just be able to relax. He was just be able to let go for a little while. School stressed him out (as it does for many students) and that's probably something he doesn't want to remember every detail about.
As Julie and Abbey stated above Theo is upset about the building being renovated because that is basically his last physical reminder of the simpler times when he was a child. It was where he had many happy memories with his mother before she passed away. I can relate to his feeling because some years ago I was going through things of mine from my childhood to donate and I did feel a little sad about giving up some of my physical reminders of my childhood Although I was not in as much of a shock as Theo was. I feel the renovation symbolizes almost a turning point in Theo where he realizes he cant be a child and things just are not as simple as they used to be.
Theo isn't excited about his early college admission for a number of reasons, just as he feels bad that Hobie is excited. Theo feels that he hasn't earned it. As he said in the book, Theo feels like there is another kid out there who is much more deserving of this spot than himself. I think the best emotion to describe Theo at this point is embarrassment. Theo feels, because of his past, he isn't deserving of such a great opportunity and he would like to see it go towards someone who he thinks is more worthy. This also contributes to his feelings towards Hobie and how excited Hobie is. Hobie has no idea about Theo's past in Vegas - a time in which Theo would like to keep hidden. So, as a result, Hobie has a pure, almost untainted view of Theo, believing that Theo is a perfect, well-rounded child. Theo feels almost obligated to keep this image of himself in order to preserve Hobie's beliefs, which is partially why he applied for the early college program in the first place. However, Theo didn't expect to get in, and when he does, this caught him by surprise. After all, during his time in Vegas he barely participated in school and was almost always out drinking and doing drugs with Boris; a quality that isn't very prestigious. Because of this, Theo feels like he lost a part of himself in Vegas - the part of himself that his mother loved to the ends of the Earth, and the part of himself that previously would have been ecstatic to learn about his acceptance into this pre-college program. He felt like returning to something he would have loved when he was younger is pathetic and underhanded, hence why he wasn't excited at the news of his admission and why he was embarrassed that Hobie was so excited for him.
Theo pays careful attention to all the details in Hobie's shop because he loves it there and feels the most comfortable and wants to be able to remember it forever. However, at school it is a different story. He doesn't know anybody, doesn't like what he sees, he feels out of place and like he is forcing himself to do so much.... He only wants to do what is necessary to pass, no more, because of how little he likes schooling. This is why he remembers so little about it. Why would you remember lots of details about something you just went through the motions to get through? Also, I think that Theo gets so upset that the building is being renovated because it's one of the main reminders of his mother. To me, renovating the building symbolizes getting rid of the past and moving on to better things, but I don't think Theo thinks he is ready for that yet.
Since Theo was moving to live with his father, he just wanted to go see the building and the doormen that he grew up with one last time. Theo was upset about the building renovation because he grew up there, and all of his childhood memories were in that building. I think that Theo was also upset because that was Theo and his mom's "meeting place" and a major place where they made their bond. I think that the renovation symbolizes a new beginning. Whether it's a new beginning of bonding with his father, making new friends, or moving across the country. All these are major adjustments to someone's life, especially after surviving a terrorist attack. I think that Theo reacted like anyone else would.
I believe that when you enjoy a certain subject, you will do better in that area because you have more interest in it. This applies to Theo because he has a stronger connection to art than he does with school. His mom was an Art History major in college. Theo enjoys art more than school because he grew up all around art. I thought Theo's mother's death was ironic because she died surrounded by one of the things she loved the most, ART! I'm not sure if it was meant to be ironic or not, Theo's job became selling antique art for Hobie. Did he sell it because he enjoyed it, or did he sell it because it represented his mother's death? Antique means a collectible item with high value. Is his mom the only high valued collectible in his life?
The demolition of Theo's old apartment building left him upset because, like he said, the building was an unchanging docking-point for him. It was the one place he knew he'd find someone to connect with. From the doorman to the maid, everyone was friendly to Theo and there for Theo. Also, this apartment building was where Theo's childhood was and where most of his memories with his mom were made. Anyone would be saddened if something like this was taken from them. The renovation symbolizes moving on. It's been more than eight years since Theo's mom died, and it's time for him to understand that the world will not stop for him.
Theo isn't excited about his early college admission because he feels that he isn't worthy of the spot. He feels like another teenager could have gotten in that would try a lot harder than he plans to. Theo doesn't like to see Hobie celebrating the fact that he got in. Theo internalizes that Hobie is excited to see him go but Hobie is actually just really proud of Theo and all the hard work he put in to get there. I believe Theo doesn't want to live in a dorm because he feels like he can't connect with his peers. He feels like they have nothing in common and are polar opposites. Maybe he is right in that aspect. Most kids his age haven't lost both of their parent, they aren't addicted to drugs, and they haven't stolen a world famous painting.
Theo is upset about the apartment complex's renovation because, in many ways, it stood as his last, solid link to his mother. The building itself was familiar, as well as the people inside it, and because New York feels so much colder to him than ever before, having that connection to a happier time would have made for at least some minor comfort. Likewise, the chance of running into Goldie or Jose (or anyone he could recognize from his childhood) is very plausible up until this point in the narrative, where that hope is finally crushed. As whole, this symbolizes the final door to Theo's past closing behind him. He was destroyed, along with the building, and is now well on his way to becoming a different man—and not necessarily a better one.
Theo doesn't want to live on campus because want to leave Hobie. He's already left so many people behind, Hobie is all he has left. Theo is upset about Hobie's excitement because he thinks Hobie is excited to get away from him but he's just being paranoid. It's been a while since he's received positive reinforcement. Hobie is just happy and proud of him for accomplishing such a goal.
Theo's early admission into college and is effort once school does start is greatly affected by the way he feels after his situation fully dawns on him. Theo becomes severely depressed about everything regarding his life and doesn't have the motivation to continue putting effort into school. He feels bad that Hobie is excited about his early admission because of his guilt regarding the situation. Theo feels guilty that he was given such a great opportunity and doesn't believe he deserves it. He knows there are kids out there who center their entire lives around the opportunity he was given and he took their spot, something that he feels he has no place being a part of.
Theo doesn't want to live in a dorm for two main reasons.
The first reason is of the comfort that Hobie's home and workshop bring him. For the first time since his mother's death, Theo feels almost at peace with his surroundings. To take away the one piece of stability and familiarity would be disastrous to Theo. His whole world would be flipped 180 degrees. He would be alone in an unfamiliar place. Theo knows that he can't do that to himself.
The second reason Theo doesn't want to move into a dorm is his uneasiness around crowds. Theo mentions several times that after the death of his mother, he finds it troubling to be in crowded places- he even went so far as to throw away a paid movie ticket because the theatre was too full. Although this reason is lesser compared to the first, it is still relevant. The dorm wouldn't be as compact as a crowded movie theatre, but he would still be living in an area with hundreds of strangers. I think that this living situation would be aggravating to his PTSD.
Theo is not excited about being accepted to college early because he believes he does not deserve it. Adam A. is completely correct when he says that "He knows there are kids out there who center their entire lives around the opportunity he was given and he took their spot..." Theo has not shown forth the effort, in his eyes, to be deserving of such a honor. Theo also feels bad that Hobie is excited because Hobie is all that he has left in this world and he does not want to disappoint him. If he were to tell Hobie that he does not want to take advantage of this opportunity then Hobie might get mad that he would waste such a life changing opportunity just because Theo doesn't think he is deserving, he obviously is if a college is targeting him.
The renovation of the building is a symbol, in my opinion, of a new beginning. What was old and worn out is now returning to a newer more youthful existence. I think of the renovation as rehab and the building as someone struggling with substance abuse. No matter how beat up the building you can always fix it up just like no matter how beat up a human is they can too can become successful once more with the help of others. This relates to Theo in one major way, college could be his renovation to his life, it could get him out of the streets and into a mansion just as long as he lets it happen, he is his old building and the fully renovated building is what he could be if he could get out of his depressed nature.
Theo doesn't care about the early college program because he just saw it as his only opportunity to stay in New York City with Hobie. If he didn't, he'd have been sent off upstate to live with some people he's never met or be sent off to a boarding school where he wouldn't know anyone. When he's with Hobie he feels at least slightly at ease, which is why he feels bad when Hobie is excited that he was accepted because Theo knows that he isn't going to try and that he's just going to do the least amount that will still allow him to pass. He doesn't try because he sees no reason to. He has no will to learn and half the time he doesn't have the will to live life without the help of some drugs. He feels like he's lost everything and he doesn't see how school will help. He didn't try at all when he was with Boris and he certainly isn't going to try now.
Theo is upset about the renovation of his old home because he felt as though they were destroying his home and memories. His apartment was the last thing that was the same, everything else about his life in New York had changed. It's renovation, however, symbolized new beginnings. They were turning the building from shabby apartments to upscale condos. This change coincides with Theo turning himself into something better and cleaning up his life.
Theo remembers so many details about Hobie's shop because it is something that he cares about. When Theo is down in the basement with Hobie he does not feel alone like he does anywhere else. So to feel even more connected with Hobie he started paying attention to Hobie's habits and sayings to better understand him. Theo does not care about school at all and when you don't care about something you don't bother to remember detail about it.
Theo is upset about the state of his old building because that is one thing that was left from before his mom died. It was a place that held the a lot of his memories of his mom and it was some place that he thought would always remain the same. The renovation symbolizes the getting rid of the old and starting of the new. I hope this also symbolizes some positive change coming into Theo's life.
Theo isn’t excited about his early college admission because he no longer cares about the school aspect of his life. Theo really used to care about school and getting good grades, but after his mom passed away and everything that happened in Las Vegas, he just couldn’t go back to how things used to be. His life is similar to breaking a glass plate. You can break the plate and glue it back together but it will never be the same. Theo had been broken, chipped, scratched, neglected, etc. There was never any chance of him returning to his somewhat normal life. Theo feels bad that Hobie gets so excited because Theo could care less and the fact that Hobie is excited makes Theo feel obligated to continue to participate in something he doesn’t even like. Theo doesn’t try in college because he feels like it’s such a waste of time. He lost both his parents and has literally nothing so he doesn’t really want to participate. He doesn’t feel like it’s important, he just goes through the motions.
Theo is so upset about his childhood home being renovated because of all the memories he had there. That building was where he grew up, and it is where he made some wonderful memories with his mother. I would compare it to moving away from a childhood home, although this is much tougher on Theo because he has lost his mother. I think seeing the building being renovated upsets Theo so much because its showing the passing of time from when his mother died. People have moved on just like the new building renovations, and it brings many changes into Theo's life.
Theo feels bad that Hobie is excited because it makes him feel unwanted. Hobie's excitement isn't because Theo will be gone, it is because of all the opportunities this will create for Theo. Hobie could not be more proud or happy for Theo and his accomplishments. Theo sees no reason in trying at school. He is only willing to do enough work to pass, I think this is because he feels lost. Theo has yet to find a reason to want to learn, and I think that is what is holding him back from trying his best.
Theo remembered more about the shop than the school simply because he enjoyed being there more. Theo had fun in the repair shop, he got to do something that was fun for him. He felt comfortable and relaxed, and was definitely not as stressed as he was at school. No one really likes school, so it makes sense that he doesn't remember the smaller details. Theo probably zoned out on a few things during school on purpose, but the repair shop kept his full attention.
Theo becomes sad when he sees his old home being renovated, because they are destroying and tampering with the little memory he had left of his childhood. He wanted to got there to act as if it was the past again, where his mother would be waiting for him and he could talk to Goldie the doorman. I think it just really struck a nerve with him when he went there and saw it being changed. It was where he had spent his childhood and was one of the last places he had been with his mother. Theo doesn't want to live in the college dorms because he is happy living with Hobie. Its the first place he has felt comfortable at since his mothers passing. He thinks that because Hobie is happy with him getting into the college that it must mean Hobie is tired of him and wants him to leave.
First, Theo is not excited at the opportunity of entering college early, because of his self-esteem is dangerously low, and he neither believes in himself, nor believes in his self-worth. Although he is content with Hobie, he is worried that Hobie is sick of him, which, according to Theo, is why Hobie is more excited about this opportunity that he is. He feels like he is a burden on Hobie, but is selfish enough to decline living in the dorms to stay with his ward, while most high school students would be thrilled to live in the dorms.
Theo is upset with the state of the building he used to live in because of what the building used to represent. The building represented the safe haven of his child hood. His memories of the the building stayed concrete within his mind. He never thought the building would change and the people within it would move. We all have moments that we visit from our child hood and notice the changes that have occurred. For Theo, the changes of his old building symbolize how things change overtime and the inability to do anything about it. In other words, his child hood is over.
Theo doesn't try to do much of anything. He doesn't try to apply himself in his studies ( he is only taking the minimum of required courses), he doesn't try to be involved in extracurricular things, and he especially doesn't try to make friends. From Theo's standpoint he is there to get what needs to be done and then go home. One quote describes this attitude very well "I showed up for class, spoke when spoken to, completed my assignments, and walked back home." (Page 411). Theo seemed to have no real excitement when it came to school.
Another idea to point out is Theo's lack of connection to the other students. It makes sense to why he wouldn't want to make friends if he felt he didn't "fit in" with his age group, but then that would be a reason to make upperclassmen friends. Theo leads a more complex (rough) life then most of his classmates do, so he doesn't feel accepted.
With the renovation of the old building, Theo is in a confused state of mind. Not only is everything he once knew gone, he know feels even more empty than before. The old building was covered up with new. Theo cannot relate to the new of this building. He recognized the environment around him, but not the building in front of him. On page 426 it says, "Walking out of the building, its vaultlike hush and stale breezelet humming evenly through the vents..." Everything is closed like a vault, and all that remains is a stale hush of nothing.
Theo's been forced to go through a lot since the attack in the museum. Being uprooted from New York, reconnecting with his father, losing his father, and moving in with Hobie are all events that occur close together. Theo doesn't give himself any time to heal for real at all, instead numbing the pain with drugs. Now, the constant change of scenery is catching up to him, and he feels apathetic toward everything. He can't move on. When he returns to his old building and sees that it's been emptied-out and modernized, he's stricken with the prospect that everyone has been forced to change. The doormen and the neighbors had to move on, but something inside Theo cannot. This is probably because he's still lugging around the literal baggage that is the painting, which carries such an emotional burden on him.
Theo isn't excited about the early admission because he is reluctant to any kind of change. He feels uneasy that Hobie is excited because he worries that Hobie doesn't want his company. When he's there he doesn't try because he loses interest. He doesn't care about learning nearly as much as he used to.
Theo is upset because he fears letting go of what he once had. Having the building how it was, even if he wasn't there, was important to him in knowing it was there. The renovation of the building represents new beginnings, and change as it happens to all of us. It is important to let go of things as they leave our lives. Renovations are improvements, and things in life get broken down and rebuilt better.
Theo remembers more details about the shop than school, because his heart is not in school: he is in his own element when he is at the shop with Hobie. Also, Theo is upset at the state of the building he used to live in, because its disheveled state shows how much time has actually passed since he lived there with his mother. Its renovation symbolizes change, and turning a new leave. Even though Theo might not be ready to let go of his old life with his mother, the universe is telling him it's time. Will this renovation improve his mental and emotional health? Maybe. But, change is making a difference, whether good or bad. Only time will tell how this change affects Theo.
Theo is upset about the renovation of the building he used to live in. I believe the reason for this is that it symbolizes when Theo was a child, and when his mother was still alive. The renovation symbolizes a new beginning, and because of this, Theo is scared because his childhood is over.
Theo isn't excited about his early college admission is because he fears it will make him move on from his life with Hobie, which is the closest thing to a comfortable life he has had since the explosion at the art museum. So much change has been forced upon Theo's life that he can't willingly bring more change into it. He fears that if he gets involved with college and lives in the dorms then its going to uproot him from the simple life he has been living with Hobie. His lack of participation in his classes is further evidence that to Theo, early college is just the lesser of two evils, because he also didn't want to continue going to high school because of the thought of applying to several colleges with difficult admissions when he didn't truly want to go to any of them. He feels like his early college is just another thing that other people really care about, but doesn't matter nearly as much to him.
Hobie’s shop interests Theo while school seems to bore him. Theo is amazed at the talent Hobie has and looks up to Hobie as a father he never had. Theo seems to want to learn Hobie’s trade more then he wants to do school. Hobie’s shop is like a sanctuary from the world and his tragic life. School keeps reminding Theo of the tragedy that he has experienced in his life. This different altitude of school and Hobie seem to influence Theo’s opinion of school and Hobie’s shop. Hobie’s shop is the one place Theo can escape from the world.
Theo is upset from the state of the building he used to live in because to him it is losing something from his childhood. He wants the good parts of his childhood to remain to look back on and when he sees the building it reminds him of the bad things. It almost symbolizes that your childhood can't last forever.
Theo's building was the last connection he had to his mom. He could go to is old apartment, and see the doormen. By doing this, he remembers the time before his mother passed away. Now it is being renovated. The renovation symbolizes that nothing remains the same forever. Things happen that are out of our control. Time continues even if we don't want it to.
I agree with what Michele said about the shop being almost like a safe haven for Theo. A place he can go to escape reality. Everyone needs one. While school being a harsh reminder of the bad in his life.
I agree with what everyone has previously said about the apartment's renovation and it's connection to the memories of Theo's mom. Even though it has been such a long time and Theo has grown up since, Theo's mom's death is still fresh in his mind with the thought of the apartment. Knowing that the apartment is going to change sets Theo's denial of his mother being erased from his life back in. Theo has faced change in every aspect of his life thus far, and the one thing that brings all of his childhood memories back is forcing more change amongst him.
Theo was shocked to see the state of the building he used to live in. The people there were his last link to his mother. The doormen he used to see everyday were no longer people he could rely on to talk to. The apartment was his childhood home, and within the walls were all of the memories with his mother. He is starting to realize that while he was gone in Vegas, time passed in New York. People have moved on from the bombing, but Theo is struggling to return to the city without his mother, father, or Boris. The renovation symbolizes change and a new beginning in Theo's life. Hopefully the new beginning is more stable and healthy than the last few months of Theo's life.
Theo isn't excited about early college admission because the idea of any more change and having to leave Hobbie scares him. He doesn't want to go to boarding school or stay in the dorms because he doesn't want to leave the only person he has left, Hobbie. He feels bad that Hobie is excited because he interprets this as Hobbie wanting him to leave. But, the main reason Hobbie is excited is because he cares for Theo like a father and wants the best for him. Also, he wants him to have this good oppurtunity, because he has had such a hard life and has already lost many oppurtunities with the loss of both his parents.
Theo isn’t excited about early college because anyone could get in, and he feels bad that Hobie is excited because he thinks this means Hobie wants to ship him off. Theo would rather not live in a dorm because he wants to stay in a family setting with Hobie. Theo is upset at the renovation of his old building because it symbolizes the old pieces of his life being completely gone.
Theo is so upset at the renovation of the state building he used to live in because just like the painting, it symbolizes his childhood, which of most he spent with his mother. The demolition shakes Theo of the comfort he had knowing that the building was there and that is would always hold his beloved memories. Even though Theo feels as if his past is being erased, I think it's also somewhat of slap in the face to Theo that he needs to move on with his life. As heart breaking and earth shattering as it was to lose his mother, his best friend, It has been 8 years since her death. Theo is wasting his life morning her death & negatively effecting his future.
Theo is not excited about the early college admission cause anyone could get into this college and he feels as if Hobie doesn't want him around anymore. Theo doesn't stay in the dorm though because he doesn't want to make friendships with people because he is afraid he might lose those people too and he wants to stay with Hobie in a family type setting where Theo feels as if he is one with the family. I agree with what Steven had to say about Hobie being happy for Theo because Theo has never really had anyone there to congratulate him or help him along life's winding ways. I feel like when Theo felt that Hobie wanted out of the house and to live in college he didn't try so he could spend more time at the shop and with Hobie himself. Plus I feel if Theo really put effort into his college he wouldn't like it cause you tend to have to build bonds with people and learn more about people and things, I feel as if he would get to attached to it.
Theo has gone through a lot of change since his mom died, and to come back after such a big change to see his old home completely renovated would be unsettling and upsetting. We see in movies and real life that when parents lose a child, they often leave their room exactly as it had been before their child’s passing and it is a big step for them to empty it out. For Theo, the building being redone when he comes back is that big step into a new life, but he’s not quite ready for it. Also, unlike parents or family who choose when they get to start these big changes, all of Theo's are being forced onto him, not giving him any time for recovery. The renovation symbolizes that his old life is completely gone. More change comes with Theo’s early admission. Theo begins to fear that with this change, he’ll lose Hobie; the only person he has left after losing his mother and father.
The thought of Hobie not really caring about whether or not he wants Theos company or attention anymore worries Theo. Hobie is excited and eager to start his life in college, as for Theo, he couldn't be less interested. I think the reason he doesn't try or make any effort once he's in school is because he's not mentally there. Details he should be remembering in class, he instead remembers details about the shop. Theo feels comfort and saftey when he is with Hobie and in the shop with him. Theo looks up to Hobie and would rather spend time learning in the shop, spending time with Hobie, than in school which he really doesn't care of have any interest about.
Theo is upset about the state the building is in because it substituted or mixed up his previous emotions he had about the world around him and himself. He grew up in that building and called it home. He saw many faces there he may never see again making it difficult for Theo to cope with all of the new situations going on in his life. The renovation symbolizes his growth as an individual through the various trials he has to endure in this game of life. He had to deal with the most important person in his life disappearing forever. The emotional state he is in must be unbearable considering he's thought of committing suicide.
The renovation symbolizes that Theo's childhood is over. The building meant a lot to Theo as it stood for his childhood, his mother, and his innocence. It represented a time where everything was not so complicated for Theo. Letting go of the building is very difficult for Theo. Much of like how we have an attachment growing up, a blanket, stuffed animal, etc., Theo has the building. It is a little different, but it is still meaningful to Theo.
Theo isn't excited about his early college admission because he's not ready to move on yet. The fact that both of his parents are dead hasn't really settled in. He doesn't want things to change anymore. In addition, this is partially why he doesn't try when he gets to the school. I think Theo is really depressed right now and doesn't want to deal with life moving forward. He'd rather just stay at home all day with Hobie.
Theo is extremely interested in Hobie's work. He enjoys being with Hobie and learning about restoring furniture. He remembers all of this stuff because he actually enjoys doing it unlike school which he is being forced into.
Theo is so upset about the building he used to live in because it's renovation is a symbol of moving forward. Theo isn't ready to move on yet. The building had so many memories of Theo and both his parents. He isn't ready to let go of it yet. The building was one of the last things he had of his parents and now it's gone.
Theo is upset about his old home being renovated because that is where he spent two of the most memorable periods of his life; childhood and adolescents. To him, it held the few remaining memories of his mother, and seeing it being stripped away was devastating. As Abbie said above, the building also represents the simpler time in Theo's life, when it was just him and his mom living happily on their own. He recalls the moments when he would talk to the workers in the building as a kid, and realizes that he won't ever be able to do that again. He lost his chance to give them an explanation about why he hasn't stayed in contact. This situation hit me even harder when I realized that history was repeating itself; Theo's life with Hobie is being taken away as well. Both of his simple, peaceful lives have been interrupted, and at this point, I think Theo feels as though his happiness is always going to be temporary.
Theo doesn’t put in any effort because in the back of his mind, he knows that he always has Hobie’s shop to work at if things don’t work out. Theo wants to give college a shot but it’s hard when the life he wants requires less work and would ultimately be a happier environment. He would be around Hobie all the time, and he would be able to make good money without having to go to school. School is kind-of pointless for him but he knows Hobie would be disappointed if he dropped out right away.
After Hobie learns about Theo’s early acceptance to college, Theo is sad that Hobie is excited because, to Theo, it means that Hobie doesn’t know what he means to him. I think Hobie’s reaction gets to him more than the thought that he hasn’t earned it because he cares what Hobie thinks the most. Theo thinks that if Hobie knew how much he cherished him, he wouldn’t be openly excited about him having to move away. I think it tells Theo that Hobie doesn’t care about him as much as he does. However, I do not think this is true. I think Hobie knows how much Theo cares about him, and knows that he is distraught about moving away, but cheers him on anyway. I believe he does this because, as much as it pains Theo, Hobie thinks a new experience like this will be good for him. Whether it will be, he doesn’t know, but he needs Theo to give it a shot. He wants to see his best friend embrace change and make an effort to get out into the world and be happy again.
Theo is not excited about his early college admission because his life will again be altered by a change of scenery. He lives with Hobie and enjoys it, however dorm life could change that and again another trial for Theo to endure has started. Theo feels bad that Hobie is excited because the one that should really be excited should be him, however he is scared of the future and not excited at all. Once again, dorm life would really be a change he doesn’t know he could do. He has a decent lifestyle with Hobie right now and he does not want to alter that again. Theo doesn’t seem to like school at all considering he doesn’t care about being accepted early into college and he isn’t like many teenagers. He has to deal with incredibly difficult situations that no teenagers should have to go through.
Theo isn't excited about his early admission because he feels he doesn't deserve it. He thinks there are plenty of kids who tried harder than him, and at least one who was more fit to have his place than him. He is also probably terrified by the thought of any more huge life changes. Theo feels bad that Hobie is excited because he isn't excited himself. Hobie makes him feel kind of guilty. I think the other views people have posted here are valid, too, and that Theo could feel that Hobie wants to get rid of him.
I think Theo is upset about his old apartment building being renovated because that is where he grew up. Many unforgettable memories have been created there. The building is especially important because it holds many memories of his mother. They were so close and when she passed away the building was a main connection for him. Even the doormen were important because they treated him like family. Now all of that is being erased by the new renovation. The renovation symbolizes times are changing and the idea of moving on. Theo has to move on with his life that was once held in the apartment building. Renovating it will give Theo a chance to move on and mature in the times he’s living in right now.
Theo is not excited about his early college admission because he does not care about going to school anymore. He is not motivated to do school work or be in a classroom setting. After his mother passed away he started to give up little by little, and when he went to Vegas he gave school up completely. Doing drugs and drinking became a top priority instead of working hard at school. He has gone through so much within the past few years that he does not even feel it is worth it to even start trying again. Theo has lost both of his parents therefore, feeling like he has nothing left, and that he should just give up. Given the circumstances that Theo is in, there really isn’t anything that can give him a sense of normalcy to help boost his hope or help him to work hard in school. Theo is a very smart kid, and could do really well in school but he finds it to be a waste of time after so many terrible things have happened to him.
Theo is so upset about the renovations on the building he used to live because that building was filled with happier times. When he was a kid, when he actually had his mother. Where they shared stories and dinners together. The renovations symbolized that Theos old life is gone he is totally changed. I also agree with what Julie says about the building being rundown symbolizing Theo himself. All his decisions he has made in his life has took a piece from him. Bringing him down to a rubble that he himself needs renovations.
I was really surprised to find that the building was being renovated. I agree with all the other comments concerning this question and would also like to add some things. This relates to when the old man dies above Oskar's apartment. Both these characters live in New York City. How things move to fast. This relates to how Heidi Klum says in Project Runway, "in fashion, one day you're in and the next you're out." Things move so quickly, like they never even happen. How the city moves so fast, how evolution moves faster then I think anyone would really like it too. How something can be so important in your life, a.k.a. the old man, the renovated apartment, the fashion industry, and then it's gone, just like that. There's nothing anyone can do about it. Theo and Oskar, both see things so negatively, that these things leaving so quickly corrupts their views on even positive things around them. These events represents things that are out of our control and how it affects us as people.
I agree with Chris’s statement, Theo is upset at the state of the apartment building because that was his original home, the apartment was the most important and last place he could visit that would bring back memories of the simpler life he once had, it also gave him memories of his mother, Goldie and the other doormen he enjoyed being around before the accident at the museum. I feel like the event of having the apartment sold and being stripped apart of everything to become something new symbolizes that not everything will stay the same forever; as time passes things will change whether its for better or for worse, and that Theo’s simple life of coming home to see his mother and play around with the friendly doormen were over.
Theo is extremely upset at the state of the building because the building was his own reminder of simpler times in his life. The building symbolized his childhood and renovating the building, in his eyes, destroyed the memories and ties he has left with the building. Theo could no longer walk through it and remember it like what he used to with the new changes. The huge reason, in my opinion, that the building being renovated hurt him so bad is because of his mother. The building was kind of like his last tie to hold onto the memories he had with her and taking that away from him, hurt him.
Theo is not excited to live in the dorms because he found someone he is comfortable around for the first time in a long time, and leaving Hobie would mean he would have to go back to how times used to be, uncomfortable. Theo believes that since Hobie is extremely happy about getting accepted, that he is tired of Theo and wants to get away, hurting Theo even more internally. When actually Theo does not care about getting in because he cannot get back to how he was when his mother was alive. After his stay in Vegas and facing even more tragedy, New York could have been that fresh start, but he just cannot get back to old times because of everything he keeps experiencing. I feel terrible for Theo, because while he should care about college, like many high school students, tragedy does affect people differently and creates a different meaning of life for someone.
Ali makes a good point about the building's renovation. Theo is still rightfully upset about his mother's death, but the building's renovation shows that time hasn't stopped in New York while he was in Las Vegas. I think the renovation serves a similar purpose to the story as Andy's and Mr. Barbour's deaths because they all symbolize part of Theo's life being over with no hope of being recovered.
Theo isn't excited about his early college admission because he feels like it was a mistake that he got into the program. Theo feels bad and feels like he is taking up a spot from someone that deserves it more than he does. Theo doesn't want to live in a dorm because he is too close to Hobie and enjoys Hobie's house and company. Theo also doesn't really connect that well with other students his age. Honestly the reason I believe Theo remembers more about the shop than he does school is because that the shop interests him more than school does and he feels less pressure and more comfortable in the shop. The renovation of Theo's old apartment buildings symbolize how much Theo's life has changed and Theo feels that with the renovation of the apartment buildings, his memories of those times will be gone as well.
Theo remembers specific things about Hobie's shop because it's a place he enjoys being, it's his own little safe place. It's like when he first moved out to Las Vegas with his dad and he'd remember Hobie's house and workshop to feel safe or put some of his anxieties at ease. I think it's a place Theo remembers because during that time he was always so worried that he'd be forced to move out and away with people he didn't know and if he could remember every little detail he could imagine being back at Hobie's and in turn also remember Pippa. He doesn't remember much of his school because he resented being there and he resented the people there. He felt so uncomfortable there that he made himself not notice every crack and crevice like he did at Hobie's.
Theo was upset about the renovation of the building he used to live in because like many people said above that it was the last physical memory of the time spent with his mother. he is loosing the place that had the last good memories that he had with his mother before she passed away. this renovation symbolized basically a turning point in his life. he is realizing that life will never be as easy as it used to be.
Theo is upset about the building he used to live in because it is being renovated. It symbolizes change that Theo was not quite ready to make. He was upset because the building was ready to move on with the times while he was still stuck back in the time of his mother. It is a sad time but i feel like it should also show us that it's about time for him to realize that the world doesn't stop in one place after an event. Now the place is completely different as well as his life. Theo also is probably sad because he feels the memories are all gone.
Theo loves the shop and knows much about it. Theo is not excited about early admission because he feels that he isn't as qualified as the other students who tried so very hard to get in. He feels out of place and he does the bare minimum to pass his classes. He is upset because he feels as though he will lose Hobie in the process. Hobie is the only person left in his life and it upsets him that Hobie is supportive of him leaving.
The reason that the renovations of Theo's old home upsets him is because that is where he grew up. He had friends that worked there that he had come to know so well and it was where the many memories of his mother lied. His old home was a reminder of when he was happy and didn't carry so much grief. A place that, to him, was beautiful and special just the way it was. However, the renovation symbolizes the new part of Theo's life that is beginning. He will still have the framework of his life prior, but he will carry new memories and ideas that will help him to learn and prosper later on in life. A new beginning without completely erasing the old parts of him.
Theo likes Hobie's shop way better then school like anyone else would. To him the shop is his comfort zone to get away from the annoying teachers and homework. The shop stays the same while at school, the building changes and different people come and go. Theo is so upset because one of his last few memories of his mom is changing. The renovation symbolizes that the past becomes the future. His mom is in the past and in the future there will be a new person or memory that will replace his sadness over his moms death. Of course he isn't ready for the change yet. No one truly knows when they are ready for change.
Theo likes Hobie's shop way better then school like anyone else would. To him the shop is his comfort zone to get away from the annoying teachers and homework. The shop stays the same while at school, the building changes and different people come and go. Theo is so upset because one of his last few memories of his mom is changing. The renovation symbolizes that the past becomes the future. His mom is in the past and in the future there will be a new person or memory that will replace his sadness over his moms death. Of course he isn't ready for the change yet. No one truly knows when they are ready for change.
Theo is so upset about the state of the building that he used to live in because it was the building that he grew up in with his mother. Seeing it be renovated in a way took away the good memories that he had there. The renovation symbolizes the changes that Theo was not quite yet ready to make in his life.
Theo remember so many details about Hobie's shop because he enjoyed it more than school, like everyone else would. The shop would comfort him in his times of need, as to where school just could not do that for him. The shop does not change, the people, workers, things inside of it, as to where school's are constantly changing with the workers, students, books, and the way that it looks.
I don't think that Theo wanted to go live in the dorms when he was accepted to early college because he had worked so hard to be able to live with Hobie in the first place. Early college was the only thing keeping him away from boarding school, and boarding school took him away from Hobie. Living in the dorms would mean moving away from a man that he felt totally understood and cared for him, and he just couldn't handle that. Also, Theo was so devastated about finding his building being renovated because in the past in Vegas he had been able to transport himself back to the building and imagine that his mother was still there waiting for him. Now, seeing the building practically in ruin and without any of the people he used to know, he can no longer find comfort in that memory and has to accept the finality of his mother's passing.
Theo enjoys the detailed workings of Hobie's shop and remembers much about it as opposed to his school because the shop was a place he thoroughly enjoyed being. It was a place where he could get away and no one looked at him funny or felt the need to be overly-sympathetic around him like some of the teachers and counselors at his school. Hobie's shop also is the place he became close with Hobie who essentially is the most positive parental influence in Theo's life since the passing of his mother. Another reason, is school was not somewhere Theo enjoyed being. Andy and him were constantly bullied and such memories are often buried deep inside a young boy's head. The shop was the closest thing to home for him. It was comforting, and the meticulous work had the ability to take his mind off of things.
Theo doesn't want to live on campus because he was comfortable with his surroundings for once. Theo believes that getting accepted into college early was a mistake and that there is a more deserving student out there. Theo didn't want to move away from Hobie who he had loved to live with and loved his home. Theo doesn't socialize with other kids his age and wouldn't be able to socialize in college either. Theo believes that he can work at the shop without further education anyway.
Theo is upset with the renovations of the building he used to live in because it represented his childhood. Theo was attached to the building and the memories he made in it. He was expecting to come back home and see things how he left them, when he lived a normal happy childhood with his mom, but instead everything was different. The changes to his old building symbolizes how much his life has changed and that he can't do anything to change it back.
Theo is not excited about his early college admission because that means his seperation from Hobie, who has been his best friend and most trusted companion since the tragedy of his mother. he is upset that Hobie is excited for him because he feels that Hobie wants him to leave, and he doesn't understand that Hobie is actually supporting him in his success. Theo remembers the details of Hobie's shop so clearly because that was his second home, his safe haven, and where he aches to be at every moment.
Theo remembers so much at the shop and not at school because that's where his interest lies. He has no pressure in the workshop and he enjoys working with Hobie. I think it feels safe to him because of how he got there. He found Hobie through Welty on one of the worst days of his life. Hobie and the workshop were immediately a healing environment for him. Like he says later on, he feels him soul is connected to Welty because of the circumstances of their meeting. The workshop is where he feels like he belongs and not school. School reminds him too much of everything he has lost. Something else that reminds him of all the loss he has suffered is the building he used to live in. When he sees that it is gone it is such a sad thing for him because it was the last reminder of his life with his mom. It's gone along with the only people in the world who knew his mother and the life they had together.
Theo is not excited about his early college admission because he finally has someone in his life that he loves and is comfortable with and he doesn't want to give that all up. Hobie is his best friend, but he feels like he should be more sad about him leaving than he appears to be. He almost feels like he wants him to leave, but Hobie is just supporting him. He is also not excited about having to go through another major change.
Theo is upset when he saw his old building being renovated because that was the last physical reminder of his mother and his past life. He gets so upset because the memories and life he had there seem to be destroyed. It'll no longer be the same, the tenants and the building itself is different, he can no longer look at the building and think of the simpler times in his life. The buildings renovations symbolizes all the change in his life that he can't control.
The place Theo started his life and a lot of his childhood. He has many memories there with his mother, who he loved the most and got his passion of art from. The building was closed down with all of the residences gone. They were taking down the old worn out building to make newer better condos that are much better. This shows the ending of his old ways of life and an opening to a much better time in his life.
Theo remembers so much about Hobie's shop because that is what interests him. At school, he is merely trying to survive through the day and do the minimum amount of work required to get by. Even his teachers say that he seems uninterested and is not making any efforts to apply himself. When he is in Hobie's workshop, that is when he feels that sense of purpose. I think that its only a part of his human nature. If someone feels a connection with some sort of trade, hobby, etc. then they will naturally be more invested in that act than in another preoccupying activity.
Theo is upset when the building is being renovated becuase that building is the only thing that reminded him of his mother and since its changing it will be hard for him to remember how it used to look. He doesn't want it to change because his life took place in that building and he isn't for the renovation. All of his memories in that building will never be the same to him. The renovation symbolizes life and how it can change in the matter of years, days, or even weeks.
I believe that Theo is so distraught over the demolition of his childhood hotel building mainly because he lost one physical reminder of his life with his mother before she died. Theo was already having a hard time coming to terms with her death and seeing that something that connected him and his mother was being destroyed really hurt him. Another reason why Theo was so upset was because he had lost some of his childhood friends as well. All the door attendants that Theo used to talk with, almost a family to him, were now all gone. Theo also made the realization that it would be very difficult to keep the painting safe, if he had left it in the hotel safe, he would most likely never have seen it again. All of these things compounded to make Theo very sad upon seeing the hotel under construction. This building renovation also helped Theo come to terms that it was time to move on in his life as the world was still carrying on around him even without his mother.
Theo remembers a lot from Hobies's shop because that is what Theo enjoys and what keeps him interested. When he is in Hobie's shop his creativity and imagination side both come out and he enjoys the time that he spends in there. When in school Theo doesn't really care for it and he just does it so that he can live on. He doesn't think that any of his classes are interesting and he doesn't try in any of them. He doesn't want to remember the details about school.
Theo isn't too excited about his early college admission because he really doesn't care for school that much and he doesn't want to leave Hobie. Theo is sad that Hobie is excited for him because he thought that Hobie would actually be sad that he is leaving. He doesn't try because he misses Hobie to much to concentrate on his school work and he doesn't want to go through another major change as well. He doesn't want to live in the dorm because he doesn't want the room mates to judge him and he doesn't want to be with anyone else. Theo also felt comfortable where he was.
I agree with all the things Matthew said. Theo doesn't want to make another big transition and start over with new people who might judge him. Like Matthew said he was comfortable where he was. He also doesn't want to leave Hobie. he never tries on his homework because he thinks to much about ho he misses Hobie and he also thought Hobie would miss him and not want him to leave
Theo enjoys the detailing in Hobies shop because its his get away from his troubles. When you love doing and being somewhere you are going to be more prone to remembering what its like there; with the good memories. Rather than school in his position where he doesn't feel welcomed and would rather be at the shop. If you enjoy something you are more likely to work hard for that than you would for anything else. With school he is just doing things to just get by and pass.
Theo is upset at the building renovation because he is losing an anchor that has helped to keep him grounded throughout his life. His apartment was a safe place, untouchable by the outside world. No matter how fast life moved and how many people came in and out of it, his apartment would not change. It being renovated is taking that safehaven away from him. It's taking the past he shared with his mother and demolishing it for the future. Without that apartment there are few things that still tie Theo to his mother and his past. The building's renovation symbolizes that Theo is moving on, although not by choice. It has come to a point where holding on to the past is almost not possible because the future requires so much attention. Although Theo does not want to, he has to stop looking over his shoulder and stay focused on the road ahead.
Theo has a mixture of negative thoughts toward the renovation of his past home because he felt like they were taking away his childhood memories. Everything in his life had changed accept his apartment. Although Theo was upset about the apartment getting renovated, it symbolizes a new start. The apartment is getting fixed up and getting a fresh start for new people, Theo too is getting a new start and will be able to fix his life.
Theo isn't excited for his early college admission because in truth he's never really been excited for anything to with school, not to mention he will have to leave Hobie. Theo also isn't too keen on the idea of living with a room mate and was already liking where he currently was. Also making a big transition is difficult for almost everyone, having to say good bye to what you've known and move on to something completely new is a very scary thing at first. Last, but not least Theo has had many major changes in his life occur already, I think he's just tired of going through this.
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