If These Wings Could Fly
Chapter Twenty-Six
by McCauley, KyrieIn Chapter Twenty-Six, the narrator describes a comforting new routine with Liam, who begins driving her to school each morning. This simple act of consistency brings a sense of stability and ease to her life, replacing her nighttime fears with anticipation. Their drives are quiet yet meaningful moments of connection, filled with conversation, laughter, and shared music. Although their relationship remains innocent without further romantic gestures, the narrator values these drives as a peaceful and reassuring start to her day, highlighting Liam’s steady presence as a source of comfort.
During one morning drive, they prepare for a literature exam by quizzing each other on the novel *Tess of the d’Urbervilles*. Their discussion explores themes of social class and gender inequality, with Liam demonstrating thoughtful insight beyond typical teenage perspectives. His reflections on the persistence of gender discrimination and harassment surprise the narrator, revealing his awareness and sensitivity. This academic exchange not only helps them study but also deepens their understanding of the societal issues woven into the literature and their own world.
As they arrive at school, their lighthearted banter about chivalry and the stress of the exam underscores the growing warmth between them. Despite their youth and the pressures of school and sports, Liam’s gestures and openness suggest a genuine care that contrasts with the challenges the narrator faces. This moment embodies a blend of innocence and maturity, where simple kindness offers a refuge from the complexities surrounding them, reinforcing the chapter’s theme of finding solace in human connection amid uncertainty.
The chapter concludes with the narrator’s introspective thoughts on the tragic fate of Tess and the broader reality of women’s struggles, especially regarding domestic violence and silence. She acknowledges the danger in speaking out but expresses a fierce determination to one day use her voice as a reporter to illuminate these hidden stories. This resolve marks a turning point, emphasizing her desire to break the cycle of silence and advocate for those trapped in suffering, promising growth from quiet endurance to empowered action in the future.
FAQs
1. How does Liam’s consistent behavior during the morning drives affect the narrator’s emotional state, and why is this significant?
Answer:
Liam’s consistency in driving the narrator to school every morning provides a stabilizing and comforting presence in her life. The narrator notes that his habit might seem odd or unnecessary to him, but she values it deeply because it replaces her fear of the crawl space at night and helps her fall asleep easier. This consistent routine creates a sense of security and anticipation, transforming a short fifteen-minute drive into a “good” experience. This significance lies in how small acts of reliability and kindness can alleviate anxiety and foster emotional well-being, especially during challenging times.2. What themes from Tess of the d’Urbervilles are discussed during the quiz, and how do they relate to the narrator’s reflections?
Answer:
During the quiz, the themes of social class and gender relations in Tess of the d’Urbervilles are explored. Liam discusses how Tess’s low social class severely limits her options and contributes to her tragic fate, emphasizing the power of wealth and resources in shaping one’s life. They also touch on the persistent issues of gender discrimination, noting that despite changes over time, harassment and assault remain prevalent. These themes resonate with the narrator’s reflections on the dangers women face when speaking out and the historical and ongoing struggles related to gender inequality. The conversation deepens her awareness of societal issues she hopes to address as a future reporter.3. How does Liam’s perspective on gender issues challenge the narrator’s assumptions, and what does this reveal about his character?
Answer:
Liam’s acknowledgment that gender discrimination and harassment are still widespread challenges the narrator’s initial skepticism about how much guys her age pay attention to such issues. His self-identification as a feminist and his thoughtful responses reveal a level of awareness and empathy that surprises her. This interaction reveals Liam as a considerate and socially conscious individual who is not only attentive to academic topics but also sensitive to real-world social problems. His character contrasts with stereotypical notions of young men, adding depth to his role in the narrator’s life.4. In what ways does the narrator express her internal conflict about speaking out on issues of domestic violence and gender inequality?
Answer:
The narrator expresses a profound internal conflict between the desire to speak out against domestic violence and gender inequality and the fear of the potential dangers of doing so. She acknowledges the historical and ongoing risks women face when they “fight back,” noting the harrowing reality behind phrases like “domestic dispute.” Although she hates the silence imposed by fear, she currently chooses to remain quiet to protect those she cares about. However, she firmly states that this silence is temporary, indicating a growing resolve to use her future career as a reporter to shed light on these important issues. This tension highlights the complexity of activism in the face of personal risk.5. How does the interaction between the narrator and Liam during their morning drive illustrate the development of their relationship?
Answer:
The interactions during their morning drives reveal a developing intimacy based on trust, mutual respect, and shared interests rather than physical affection. They have not kissed again since their first date, yet their conversations and laughter create a comfortable and meaningful connection. Liam’s small acts of chivalry, like opening the car door, and their playful banter about literature and social issues, show growing affection and understanding. This gradual development contrasts with more superficial or rushed romantic interactions, emphasizing emotional bonding and companionship as foundational to their relationship.
Quotes
1. “Liam couldn’t know it, but his consistency might be my favorite quality of his. I let myself look forward to Liam, and that anticipation starts to replace my fear of the crawl space at night. I fall asleep easier. It’s just a fifteen-minute ride to school every morning, but it’s a good fifteen minutes.”
This quote highlights the growing emotional significance of Liam’s steady presence in the narrator’s life, symbolizing comfort and hope amid fear. It sets the tone for the chapter’s exploration of connection and healing through simple, consistent acts.
2. “If she’d been rich, she would have had options. Money means choices. If you have no resources, then the tiniest little thing goes wrong and you’re toast. Totally at the mercy of others.”
Liam’s reflection on Tess of the d’Urbervilles captures a key thematic argument about social class and powerlessness, emphasizing how economic status profoundly shapes a person’s fate. This insight anchors the chapter’s literary discussion and its real-world implications.
3. “‘It’s different, but it’s a lot the same.’”
This succinct statement from Liam about gender relations today compared to the past encapsulates the ongoing persistence of discrimination and harassment. It reveals a surprising awareness and empathy, deepening the chapter’s engagement with social issues across time.
4. “I don’t want to be like Tess, poor Tess, or any of these women in books who are trapped. Or worse, they fight back, and they are killed for it. Because that part of it is too true. Speaking up can be dangerous.”
Here, the narrator connects literary tragedy to personal and societal realities, expressing the painful dilemma faced by many survivors of abuse. This passage is pivotal in framing the narrator’s internal conflict between silence for safety and the desire to speak out.
5. “But as much as I hate saying nothing, it’s the only way I know how to keep them safe. For now. But I won’t be quiet forever.”
The chapter closes with this powerful vow, signaling a turning point and the narrator’s emerging resolve to break silence and advocate for those harmed. It leaves the reader with a sense of hope and impending action.