Tears of a Tiger Darkness and Light Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #7

And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death. Out, out, brief candle! Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player, That struts and frets his hour upon the stage. (23.12)

This quote from Macbeth talks about the darkness, or shadows, of life. The class decides it means that life is no longer meaningful in any way—too bad Andy agrees.

Quote #8

"It was dark, so I couldn't see, and I was under the water, so I couldn't breathe. I tried to scream, but water got into my mouth and my throat and my chest. I was cryin' out for help, but my cries only made things worse. That's how I feel tonight, Mom. That's exactly how I feel tonight." (34.28)

Andy tells his mom about what happened on vacation and again turns to the idea of dark to express himself. It's clear that he connects with the notion of darkness since he can't breathe or cope any longer, even out of water.

Quote #9

"When I think about school, I feel like I'm in a dark, closed room, with invisible hands pushin' me from all directions, pushin' me toward a light I can't see. Some kids can see the light. Some walk around like they got lights screwed in their foreheads. Some just carry a glow, like Keisha. Yeah, Keisha shines." (38.16)

If we were told to use one word to describe Andy's feelings, we'd use dark. He thinks everything in his life is dark, because he can't make sense of it all. It's no surprise that he finds himself searching for answers when all he feels is confusion.