The Independent Bone

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Linus Jung English 10 The Independent Bone Most teenagers will agree that one's independence is the one of the most important aspects in life. Regardless of what one does, one has to be able to do it on their own, without being tied down to anyone else or having to rely on someone for support. This theme, of having total independence, is the most important aspect in "Rule of the Bone", by Russell Banks. The protagonist of the story, Bone, or Chappie, develops this throughout his interesting adventures, and it seems to be the most obvious progression he exhibits. "Rule of the Bone" can be divided into three distinct sections. First, would be where Chappie decides to leave his home and live with Russ, then the initial experience he had with I-Man, and finally his time in Jamaica. These sections represent Chappie's development of independence, as he gradually is able to break free from having to stay with someone and not depend on someone for help. Additionally, one can see this progression through the way the author uses Chappie's name-from being always called Chappie, to a mix or Chappie and Bone, to only Bone. Chappie is the stereotypical example of how one would expect a rowdy modern teenager to react if put in the same situation that he had been put in. He has an abusive step-father, a nagging mother, a drug problem, and associates with "bad influences." Banks starts off with Chappie rebelling against these circumstances and leaving home to live with his friend Russ, and some older “bikers”. At this point, Chappie was entirely dependent on Russ for advice and support. Here, Banks presents the first twist, by showing how Chappie is not quite happy with that lifestyle, and if he could, would leave and live differently. This aspect of Chappie's character shows

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