Quote 1
[…] as one of the ninth graders told him last week, "Sure, I know my homework is important, Mr. Ross, but my social life comes first." (1.20)
Ben isn't a fan of this statement made at the beginning of the novel. He dreams of a world where all students would rather study than party. But when his students start making The Wave (a school activity!) their main social gig, he wonders if he should have been a little more careful what he wished for.
Quote 2
I saw that senior from Mr. Ross's class in the hall and he asked if I had joined yet. I told him I didn't intend to. He said if I didn't join soon it would be too late.
All I want to know is: Too late for what. (11.12)
The student behind this letter has something to communicate, but he's afraid of the consequences. In a country where free speech reigns, this can't be good.
Quote 3
As they got into the correct order, they couldn't help noticing that Robert was at the head of the line. "The new head of the class," someone whispered […]. (5.32)
Robert is the school outcast. For him, The Wave is an opportunity for a new identity. What do you think? Did it work?
Quote 4
"Just as long as she understands," Brian said. "We're not playing around anymore." (15.37)
Yikes.
Then he got mad. He said pretty soon people in The Wave wouldn't want to be friends with people who weren't in it. He even said I'd lose all my friends if I didn't join. (11.10)
Yes, Wave members are pretty confused. They like The Wave because it makes them worry less about popularity, but then they threaten others with lack of popularity if they don't join. Hmmm.