How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
"How did you feel then?"
"Like a piece of crap."
"Why?"
"'Cause it was my fault that Rob died."
"Why do you say that?"
"I was drinkin'. I was drivin'."
"Do you think Rob blames you?"
"I don't know. Probably not. He was such a cool dude. He took everythin' real easy. Nothin' hardly ever upset him."
"So maybe you're blaming yourself for something that Rob forgives you for?"
"Maybe." (11.28-37)
In his conversation with the psychologist, Andy goes back and forth about whether or not he is to blame. The final answer? He knows Rob doesn't blame him, but he still feels terrible. It's no surprise that he feels this way since he crashed the car after having some beer, but Andy also can't seem to find any forgiveness for himself.
Quote #5
"I'd say I'm not surprised. Sometimes it's part of the guilt and grieving process—to consider suicide as an alternative to the pain. But the answer is life, Andy, not death. So then I'd tell you about the other alternatives to help eliminate the pain." (20.38)
It's too bad Andy doesn't take the psychologist's advice. Sure, he does initially, but when times get tough, he can't stand it any longer and decides to take his own life. What do you think pushes him over the edge?
Quote #6
How can you tell the parents of your best friend that you're sorry that you killed their son? There's no words to cover something that awful. I know you must hate me. I wish there was some way I could've traded places with him, you know, like I should have died, and Rob should be okay. (22.1)
Andy's letter to Rob's parents is heartfelt and difficult to write, and the guilt expresses here might be the most legit guilt he feels. Robbie's parents forgive him, though, which Andy never manages to do for himself.