Alligator Bayou Man and the Natural World Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Chapter.paragraph

Quote #7

I reach my hand over and cup the water and bring it to my lips.

Rock slaps my hand away. "Swamp water make you so sick, by the time you stop rolling you be late for Christmas." (9.77-78)

So things with giant mouths and razor sharp teeth aren't the only dangers in the swamp… The natural world is crawling with things that Calo needs to learn about—that everyone in town should know—to be safe.

Quote #8

"That foot got mashed," says Rock, "but it ain't even bleeding."

"You got those good shoes to thank," says Ben.

"We all owe thanks," says Rock. "The swamp nearly got us tonight."

We're silent a moment. (9.152-155)

Here the boys realize how much bigger and more ruthless nature is than them, even though they conquered one small part of the natural world (that would be the alligator). This moment of respect tells a lot about how the boys are growing up.

Quote #9

That swamp is a live thing with an empty heart that beats anyway. No mercy, no mercy, no mercy, no mercy—

Drumming till you lose your mind. (10.80-81)

Calogero is still scared of his experience back in the swamp. Can you blame him? Is there a way he could get over his fear? Should he, or is it smart to keep it?