“Speaking of tongues, they are the main reason I'm a nervous wreck. Ryan is a senior and well, sadly, I'm not all that experienced with boys. I mean, I'm a freshman and have been to dances with boys my age and even have gone out with boys, but I've never really kissed them. Not like I hope to kiss Ryan anyway. Bobby Robinson did shove his tongue into my mouth one time, when we were kissing under the bleachers at a football game, but it didn't feel so good. I'm pretty sure he didn't have it exactly right. So I talked to my friends, Katie and Lisa, about how to properly make out. But, well, here is just a bit of their unhelpful advice.Just let him take the lead, do what ever he does.Um, couldn't that get me into a lot of trouble?Just sort of kiss his tongue, but try not to drool.Don't open your mouth too wide.And then, just open your mouth wide.See?Stupid, conflicting information.And this from girls who supposedly know how to do this!I feel like I'm an undercover CIA agent trying to wrestle vital information out of a ruthless double agent, and the fate of the free world depends upon it. All the while, the President is yelling at me in a panic, saying, Somebody! Anybody! Just get me the truth!”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Jillian Dodd's novel, the protagonist expresses her anxiety and lack of experience when it comes to boys and kissing. She reflects on a past awkward encounter and seeks advice from her friends, but finds their guidance confusing and unhelpful. The humorous comparison of her situation to a high-stakes espionage mission adds a light-hearted touch to her inner turmoil. Through this passage, Dodd captures the awkwardness and uncertainty that often accompany teenage relationships and first experiences.
Modern Relevance
In this excerpt from Jillian Dodd's novel, the protagonist is navigating the complexities of teenage romance and grappling with the pressure to navigate the unfamiliar terrain of kissing and intimacy. This struggle is relatable to many young individuals today who may feel anxious or unsure about their own experiences with relationships and physical affection. The conflicting advice from friends reflects the often confusing and contradictory messages that young people may receive about dating and intimacy in the modern world. It highlights the need for open and honest communication about boundaries, consent, and expectations in romantic relationships to ensure a positive and respectful experience for all parties involved.
Example of Usage
In the book That Boy by Jillian Dodd, the protagonist expresses her nervousness and lack of experience when it comes to kissing boys. She seeks advice from her friends, only to receive conflicting and unhelpful tips on how to properly make out. This humorous passage highlights the awkwardness and confusion that often accompanies teenage relationships and intimacy.
Reflection Questions:
In this passage, Jillian Dodd talks about her nervousness and lack of experience with boys, specifically in regards to kissing and "speaking of tongues." Reflect on the following questions to delve deeper into the themes and emotions expressed in this excerpt:
- How does Jillian's lack of experience with boys contribute to her feelings of nervousness and uncertainty?
- What do you think the significance of the conflicting advice from Jillian's friends, Katie and Lisa, is in relation to her internal struggle?
- In what ways does Jillian's comparison of her situation to that of an undercover CIA agent add humor and exaggeration to her description of her predicament?
- How do you think Jillian's feelings and insecurities about kissing and physical intimacy reflect broader societal pressures and expectations placed on young girls in relationships?
- Consider how the metaphor of the President pleading for "the truth" adds urgency and pressure to Jillian's internal dilemma. How does this metaphor heighten the stakes of her internal struggle?
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