"Special Topics" Post 5a

Vocabulary
masochism (279): gratification gained from inflicting pain upon oneself; turning one's destructive tendencies inwards
schmaltzy (295): marked by excessive sentimentality

Figurative Language
Simile: "(haircut poised boldly atop her head like an atrocious hat worn to church)" (280). This simile gives the reader an understanding of Blue's view of Hannah's haircut, how she doesn't really feel as if it is even attached to Hannah's head, as well as the awkwardness of the situation as none of the Bluebloods feel able to comment on it negatively, just as one would not criticize a respected elder's hat in church.
Metaphor: "Her eyes bumper-stickered to my head" (292). This line demonstrates how Blue feels stuck with her respect yet fear for Hannah, and how in a way Hannah is coming to rely on Blue, as well as the rest of the group, on her ability to stick to them, to provide them their meaning.
Simile: "His voice was as stiff as new shoes. My heart, rather unexpectedly, began to jump-rope" (294). With this simile, Blue reaffirms the school oriented connection that she holds with Zach as well as showing the awkwardness of their conversation.

Quote
"... and instantly i would feel like I was dying inside, as if my heart, lungs, and stomach were all punching their time card, closing up shop and heading home, because there was no point of beating, breathing, day in, day out, if life was this sore" (294). This quote is very dramatic for Blue, especially for something so "insignificant" as her feelings for Milton. I'm not sure if it really shows how much she cares for him; it more seems to show her shift in view: now it is not only her and her father in her list of important people, but also Hannah, Milton, and most of the Bluebloods.

Theme
If one has the ability to recognize the signs, one has the duty to act accordingly to correct anything at fault, even if they must betray a trust while doing it.