Comment on a theme

One of the main shared traits of the characters is a focus solely on their own problems, which the narrative demonstrates as an insidious and highly inimical force. For example, Tub’s main personal problems are the ridicule he receives from others about his weight, as well as the shame he has about cheating on his diet. While these are not insignificant problems, he focuses on them at inopportune times and in juxtaposition to more serious problems. For example, after Tub and Frank begin driving the badly injured Kenny to the hospital, Tub decides to admonish Frank for the fact that Frank made fun of Tub’s weight. Despite the importance of this conversation, it distracts from the important task of navigating to the hospital. Moreover, Frank then takes the opportunity to speak ill of the injured Kenny: “He was asking for it” (30). This dynamic emphasizes a lack of consideration of others, especially those most in need.