How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Line)
Quote #1
But what hurt more was that I had witnessed for the first time the death of a man. (2.355-356)
How does violence define Antonio's journey from boyhood to manhood? Try tracing all the violent scenes throughout the novel.
Quote #2
The day dawned, and already the time of youth was fleeing the house which the three giants of my dreams had built. (3.1-2)
As Antonio grows up, the stories and myth-like quality of his past starts to crumble. He starts to see things for what they really are, which is often very unfun. Sure, while this might be a mark of coming-of-age, it's not necessarily a joyful occasion. In fact, for Antonio, the loss of innocence and youth is a cause for despair at times.
Quote #3
"You leave Antonio alone, please. Last night was hard for many men." (3.130-131)
Ultima is the only one who knows Antonio witnessed the killing of Lupito. More importantly, she is the only one that already considers Antonio a man. Others refer to him as a boy or even as a baby, but she knows better. Why does Ultima have such insight into Antonio even before he truly starts to come of age?