“It belongs to an Uptown attorney. What a horse’s ass. Thinks he’s so smart. He doesn’t know the difference between piss and perfume. I’ll have fun returning that to him. Maybe I’ll drop by his house at dinnertime.”
Analysis:
In this quote from Ruta Sepetys, the speaker expresses disdain and contempt towards an Uptown attorney, criticizing him for his arrogance and lack of intelligence. The speaker refers to the attorney as a "horse's ass" and mocks his perceived intellect by stating that he "doesn't know the difference between piss and perfume." The vindictive tone in the speaker's words suggests a desire to get back at the attorney, possibly by returning something to him in a way that will inconvenience or embarrass him. The mention of dropping by the attorney's house at dinnertime adds a sinister edge to the speaker's intentions, indicating a level of calculated revenge. This quote showcases themes of social class, resentment, and retribution.
Relevance in the Age of Social Media
In today's world, where social media plays a significant role in our daily interactions, the quote from Ruta Sepetys' work highlights the potential consequences of making assumptions and underestimating others based on perceived social status. The character's intentions to seek revenge on the attorney by returning an item reflect a common theme of asserting power through small acts of retaliation. This mindset can be seen in online behavior, where individuals may engage in public shaming or "call-out culture" to hold others accountable for their actions.
Ruta Sepetys' Use of Strong Language and Characterization
In the quote provided, author Ruta Sepetys utilizes strong language and characterization to emphasize the disdain the speaker has for the Uptown attorney. The derogatory term "horse's ass" highlights the speaker's contempt for the attorney, while also portraying the attorney as arrogant and ignorant. The mention of returning something to the attorney with a hint of mischief suggests that the speaker plans to seek revenge or enact some sort of payback. The use of vivid language and characterization in this quote adds depth to the narrative and helps to develop the speaker's feelings towards the attorney.
Reflection Questions:
After reading this quote from Ruta Sepetys, take a moment to reflect on the character's feelings and actions:
- How do the words and tone used by the character in the quote reflect their attitude towards the Uptown attorney?
- What does this quote reveal about the character's personality and values?
- Do you think the character's plan to return the item to the attorney's house is justifiable? Why or why not?
- How do you think the confrontation between the character and the attorney might unfold?
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