Examine the final sentence on page 132. Is there truth to this statement? What do you notice about the gender roles so far? (Talia)

On page 132 Arnold states, "Yep, even the weird boys are afraid of their emotions." In this snapshot, Gordy and Arnold bond over the fact that weird people still get banished, but the moment gets too sentimental for Gordy. I think that this statement is a very accurate theme in The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Tine Indian  and in real life. Gender roles are drastically divergent and apparent in the novel. Girls are much more emotional. The text states, "But Penelope starts crying, talking about how lonely she is, and how everyone thinks her life is perfect because she's pretty and smart and popular, but that she's scared all the time, but nobody will let her be scared because she's pretty and smart and popular," (Alexie 108). Girls are not afraid to break down and cry in front of others and often have a very affectionate friendship. Another example is when Arnold admits that he is in deep poverty. Penelope reacts, "She started to cry. FOR ME!" (Alexie 129). Arnold has a feeling of both shock and happiness when this occurs. He is surprised that she is being so poignant because boys don't have this type of relationship. In contrast, Arnold is very happy to be getting this type of attention for something he was feeling so self conscious about. Boys have a difficult time expressing their feelings, including what happened on page 132. Another example is when Arnold is breaking the news to Rowdy that he will be transferring to Reardan. Arnold wants to tell Rowdy how he feels stating, "I wanted to tell him that he was my best friend and I loved him like crazy, but boy's didn't say such things to other boys, and nobody said such things to Rowdy," (Alexie 49). Rowdy has never known love like Arnold feels towards him and when he realizes he is losing his best friend, his temper takes over. These awkward compassionate relationships are difficult for Arnold since he is so open with his sentimental side.