“[A]ll I want to do is yell

really really loud,

shout at the world that this is not permanent

this is not forever

this was a mistake

and my parents are getting better”

Laura’s authentic voice is shown in bold and italics. The formatting highlights her denial of her parents’ addiction and the temporary motif. A slight rhyme scheme exists with “forever” and “better,” although the novel is told in free verse.

“[Janet] thought I should feel grateful

for my aunt and my new school,

which she talks about like

it’s a forever thing,

a “positive” change.

Basically, adults know nothing.

Nothing nothing period.”

Laura feels frustrated that she has no control over her situation. Her ongoing resentment for Janet is well-defined, as they have contrasting ideals. This also shows the theme of Control and Resilience in Times of Change.

“I’m like a woodpecker.

Or a hummingbird.

A solo bird instead of part of a flock.

Being alone is normal.

Super normal.”

The bird similes are an important symbol. Laura identifies with a woodpecker or hummingbird because she feels so alone.