Chapter 23: All Star Running Back Summary and Analysis

Kate's daughter, Brenda, once again visits the Finch household. She tells Augusten that she dreams of being a dancer. Augusten the narrator reveals that, in there adult life, Brenda becomes an unlicensed massage therapist that performs sexual favors for her clients. Such reflections reveal the bitterness the author feels for childhood dreams, which seem often futile.

In spite of the apparent freedom of the Finch household, Augusten feels trapped. One may realize that such feelings commonly occur among adolescents. Yet, Augusten, in his youth, cannot recognize such truths. He seeks another boyfriend to fill the void left one year ago by Neil. Because of an apparent low self-esteem, Augusten sets low standards, ruling out no one that would be willing to have a long term relationship that includes more than sex.

On the...