Thursday, November 2
In the Lake Windsor High Seagulls, Erik has overcome his setback and is now a local hero for his success as a placekicker. He has been featured on the front page of the Tangerine Times sports section. Paul has also been doing well in soccer. He has played in all seven of the War Eagles’ games, and they have won them all by wide margins. Paul is thrilled to be a part of it.
Analysis
Both brothers seem to be on a successful run. But Paul’s success is built on hard work and character, whereas Erik, although he no doubt has a talent for football, has serious character flaws that will eventually undermine all his efforts.
Saturday, November 4
Paul gets his mom to drive him over to Luis’s so he can see the tangerine nursery again. He works with Luis and Tino, hauling out hoses and laying them out up and down the rows of trees. After a long day in the sun, Paul is exhausted, but he is pleased when Tino suggests that he should be the one who does the final report for the science group. Later, Paul confesses to Tino that he was the one who had ratted out the Tangerine Middle soccer players regarding the vandalism at the carnival. Tino gives him a not very hard kick in the backside in response.
Analysis
Paul fits in well at the nursery. He gets along with Luis and forms a bond with Tino. He sees a purpose in the work that he does there. Again there is an implicit contrast with Erik, who is interested only in getting glory on the football field.
Sunday, November 5
The entire Fischer family is invited to visit Mr. Donnelly, who has many contacts in the University of Florida football world. Dad wants coaches from the area to hear about Erik’s achievements. Two other football men, Larry and Frank, are also present. During the evening, Paul is pleased to find that Mr. Donnelly is taking an interest in him, as well as in Erik. After the visit, Erik drives off with his friend Arthur, while Mom, Dad, and Paul walk home.
Analysis
Erik has mastered the art of socializing on these occasions. He knows when to smile and what to say. He makes a good impression. But what is noticeable here is that Mr. Donnelly also takes some notice of Paul, who over the years has become used to being ignored. Mr. Donnelly chats with him about his soccer playing. This is a sign of the progress that Paul is making.
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