If These Wings Could Fly
Chapter Twenty
by McCauley, KyrieThe chapter opens with a vivid scene at a bustling Auburn football stadium, where the protagonist, Leighton Barnes, arrives midway through the first quarter with her family. Despite the cold weather and crowded parking, the atmosphere is lively and filled with community pride. Leighton’s younger sister, Juniper, is excited by the food trucks, especially funnel cakes, highlighting the casual family moments amidst the sporting event. The family settles near the fence, away from the packed bleachers, setting the stage for Leighton’s interactions and observations during the game.
Leighton reconnects with Sofia, a cheerleader who enlists her help to watch a standout player, number thirty-six, Liam McNamara. This task introduces a subtle tension for Leighton, who is drawn into the social dynamics of the game and the local community. Campbell, a peer, joins Leighton, and their brief conversation about the changing season and the game’s mood adds depth to the setting. Their camaraderie contrasts with Leighton’s occasional feelings of detachment, emphasizing her complex social position.
As Leighton moves into the bleachers, she encounters Amelia, whose lively enthusiasm for the game contrasts with Leighton’s more reserved demeanor. Through Amelia’s spirited cheering and Leighton’s quiet observation of Liam’s impressive performance, the chapter explores themes of belonging and personal interest in community events. Leighton’s reflections on Liam’s family cheering him on further underscore a sense of normalcy and connection that she seems to both appreciate and distance herself from.
The chapter culminates in a brief but meaningful exchange between Leighton and Liam as the game progresses toward halftime. Their interaction hints at an ongoing relationship and personal history, adding a layer of intrigue. The narrative balances the excitement of the game with underlying character dynamics, capturing a moment where public spectacle and private connections intersect. Overall, the chapter paints a rich portrait of small-town life, youth, and the subtle complexities of social engagement.
FAQs
1. How does the chapter establish the atmosphere and setting of the football game, and why is this important to the story?
Answer:
The chapter opens with vivid descriptions of a packed football stadium, emphasizing the town’s pride with phrases like “Auburn proud” and the crowd’s enthusiasm. Details such as parking on the side of the road due to a full lot, the chilly weather, and the presence of food trucks selling funnel cakes create a lively, communal atmosphere. This setting is important because it grounds the characters in a familiar, social environment that contrasts with any internal conflicts or personal growth they may be experiencing. It also highlights the significance of local traditions and community spirit, which are central themes in the chapter.2. What role does Sofia play in this chapter, and how does her interaction with Leighton advance the plot?
Answer:
Sofia acts as a catalyst for Leighton’s involvement in the football game beyond just being a spectator. By asking Leighton to help cover player number thirty-six, Liam McNamara, for the paper, Sofia draws her into a new social and journalistic role. This interaction introduces a subplot concerning Liam’s performance and Leighton’s growing interest in the game and community. Sofia’s confident and playful demeanor contrasts with Leighton’s initial reluctance, encouraging her to engage more actively. This dynamic helps develop Leighton’s character and sets up future interactions and potential storylines involving the football team and local relationships.3. Analyze Leighton’s internal conflict as depicted in her interactions with Amelia and Campbell. What does this reveal about her character?
Answer:
Leighton’s internal conflict is evident in her self-consciousness around Amelia’s polished appearance and her hesitation to fully engage socially. She notices her own worn boots and thrift store shirt, feeling somewhat out of place next to Amelia’s coordinated outfit and confident cheerleading. Similarly, her brief, somewhat annoyed reaction to Sofia’s cheerleading enthusiasm and Campbell’s company suggests she is navigating feelings of social discomfort and a desire to fit in. This reveals that Leighton is introspective and somewhat reserved, possibly struggling with self-esteem or identity issues. However, her willingness to accept Amelia’s invitation and to help Sofia indicates a budding openness to connection and participation in her community.4. How does the chapter use the character of Liam McNamara to explore themes of normalcy and family support?
Answer:
Liam McNamara is portrayed as a talented football player who is not only the focus of the game but also a symbol of everyday family life and community pride. The chapter highlights his skill on the field and his importance to the team, but also shows his family cheering him on, especially his little sister Fiona. This depiction emphasizes the theme of normalcy — the simple, universal experience of supporting loved ones in their endeavors. By observing the McNamara family’s easy camaraderie and pride, the chapter contrasts this wholesome support with Leighton’s more complicated social experiences, reinforcing the value of familial love and community connection.5. What might the conversation and brief interaction between Leighton and Liam at the end of the chapter suggest about future developments in the story?
Answer:
The brief exchange between Leighton and Liam, where Liam recognizes her and casually mentions “Sunday?”, suggests an existing relationship or plans that could be significant later. This moment hints at a personal connection beyond the football game and journalistic coverage, potentially foreshadowing deeper interactions or conflicts. The casual tone and familiarity imply that Liam and Leighton share some history or future engagement, which could influence Leighton’s involvement in the social and athletic life of Auburn. This sets up anticipation for readers about how their relationship might evolve and impact the narrative’s direction.
Quotes
1. “The football stadium is packed. Auburn proud.”
This opening line sets the scene and captures the communal pride and spirit that define the chapter’s setting, emphasizing the strong local support and the importance of the event to the town’s identity.
2. “There are too many men at the fence, and I can’t see the game.”
This quote reveals the narrator’s outsider perspective and subtle social discomfort, highlighting themes of belonging and observation that run through the chapter as the protagonist navigates the crowded, lively environment.
3. “I watch the McNamaras cheering for Liam for a few minutes. It makes me smile. It’s just such a normal, easy family thing. Supporting someone you love.”
Here, the narrative touches on the universal and heartfelt nature of family support and community connection, underscoring a key emotional insight about the simple joys and bonds that sports and shared experiences create.
4. “Touchdowns are news.”
This succinct statement reflects the narrator’s role as a budding reporter and the recognition that even small-town moments have significance, capturing the theme of finding meaning and stories in everyday life.
5. “‘Nice to see you here, Barnes,’ he says.” / “‘McNamara!’ yells his coach.”
This brief interaction between the protagonist and the player, interrupted by the coach, encapsulates the personal connections and ongoing relationships that intertwine with the public spectacle of the game, reinforcing the chapter’s blend of personal and communal narratives.