The focus is a young adult contemporary novel authored by Brigid Kemmerer, published in 2018. This work explores themes of redemption, friendship, and overcoming adversity. The narrative centers around two high school students, each grappling with past mistakes and public perception.
This novel is significant for its realistic portrayal of teenage struggles and its exploration of complex moral issues. It offers a nuanced perspective on the consequences of choices and the possibility of growth. Historically, young adult literature often shies away from morally grey areas; this book distinguishes itself by engaging directly with these complexities, providing readers with relatable scenarios and relatable characters navigating challenging situations.
Further discussion will delve into the book’s narrative structure, character development, and the specific themes it addresses. Analysis will be provided on the author’s writing style and its impact on the overall reading experience.
1. Redemption’s heavy burden
In Brigid Kemmerer’s novel, the weight of redemption is not merely a thematic element, but a driving force in the narrative. The characters, intrinsically flawed, carry the burden of their past actions. One character’s indiscretion sets off a chain of events, impacting not only their own lives but the lives of others. The pursuit of forgivenessboth from themselves and their peersbecomes a central struggle. This is not a simple journey of absolution, but a complex and often painful reckoning with consequences. The weight is palpable, influencing decisions and shaping relationships.
Consider the real-world parallel of someone attempting to rebuild their life after a significant error in judgment. The stigma lingers, opportunities narrow, and trust erodes. Similarly, in the novel, even genuine attempts at amends are met with suspicion and resistance. The past casts a long shadow, and the characters must navigate a landscape where every action is scrutinized through the lens of their former selves. The practical application of understanding this dynamic is clear: it fosters empathy, encourages nuanced perspectives on human fallibility, and challenges simplified notions of right and wrong.
Ultimately, the “heavy burden” is not just a plot device but a commentary on the enduring consequences of actions and the challenging path towards genuine change. The novel highlights that while redemption may be sought, its attainment demands immense effort, resilience, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. The challenges underscore the importance of understanding, and perhaps, extending compassion to those who genuinely seek to atone for their misdeeds.
2. Friendship under duress
The narrative threads of Brigid Kemmerer’s book are tightly woven around the central concept of friendship, yet this bond is constantly tested, strained under the weight of secrets and societal pressure. Imagine two people, once inseparable, now navigating a minefield of past mistakes, each step potentially detonating the fragile foundation of their relationship. This scenario is not abstract; it is the core of the book, where circumstances have forced these characters into a precarious alliance. Their friendship, built on shared history, is now challenged by competing loyalties, public scrutiny, and the ever-present threat of their secrets being exposed.
Consider a real-world example: a business partnership fractured by a scandal. The initial camaraderie gives way to suspicion and blame. Similarly, in the novel, the characters must grapple with the question of trust. Can they rely on each other, or will self-preservation ultimately triumph? The duress manifests in subtle ways: guarded conversations, unspoken resentments, and the constant awareness of the potential consequences. The importance of “Friendship under duress” as a critical component is not simply about showcasing conflict, its about revealing the resilience of human connection in the face of adversity. The book serves to exemplify what is required for enduring friendship when trust is damaged.
Ultimately, the book presents the idea that true friendship is not simply a fair-weather phenomenon, but a commitment that endures even when tested by adversity. The challenges faced by these characters underscore the importance of empathy, communication, and forgiveness. It suggests that even under the most extreme duress, friendship can act as a powerful force for redemption. The practical significance lies in the novel offering a profound study of how human beings navigate morally complex situations, offering insights into the fragility and strength of interpersonal bonds.
3. Moral ambiguity examined
The quiet town harbored secrets, a breeding ground for shadows that blurred the lines between right and wrong. Brigid Kemmerer’s novel plunges into this darkness, where characters are forced to confront choices devoid of easy answers. This exploration is not an incidental feature; it is the bedrock upon which the narrative is constructed. A seemingly simple act of teenage rebellion cascades into a complex web of consequences, revealing the subjective nature of justice. Cause and effect become intertwined, a chain reaction initiated by decisions made in the gray areas of moral compromise. The reader is not offered a moral compass, but rather presented with a scenario where each character navigates their personal code of ethics, often at odds with societal expectations. The importance of this examination lies in its mirroring of real-world dilemmas, where perfect solutions are absent, and the repercussions of actions ripple through communities.
Consider the dilemma faced by a whistleblower exposing corporate corruption. Is the potential disruption to the lives of innocent employees justified by the larger goal of exposing wrongdoing? Or, envision a soldier tasked with an operation that may result in civilian casualties. The novel compels a similar introspection, where loyalty clashes with conscience, and the pursuit of justice is muddied by unintended consequences. It offers a space for readers to grapple with complex moral considerations, challenging conventional notions of heroism and villainy. The characters aren’t simply good or bad; they are individuals caught in circumstances that demand difficult choices. The practical application of this understanding extends to fostering empathy and critical thinking, enabling more informed assessments of ethical complexities in daily life.
Ultimately, the book’s strength lies in its refusal to offer simplistic resolutions. The moral ambiguity remains, a constant reminder that every decision carries a weight, and every action has a consequence. While the characters strive for redemption, the novel doesn’t provide easy absolution. Instead, it challenges readers to confront their own moral compass, prompting a deeper understanding of the human condition, and the enduring struggle to navigate a world where right and wrong are not always clearly defined. The examined moral ambiguity adds weight, realism, and profoundness to the story, making it more than a book, but a complex reflection of real life where the characters are flawed and the situations, morally intricate.
4. Secrets’ long shadows
The core of the book rests on the weight of concealed truths. Before the first page is turned, a past event shrouded in secrecy sets the stage. It is not a mere plot device, but the wellspring from which all subsequent actions flow. Characters are defined, not by who they are, but by what they hide. The “long shadows” cast a pall over their present lives, distorting their relationships and dictating their choices. Every interaction is tinged with the fear of exposure, a constant reminder that the past is never truly buried.
Consider a political scandal where a single lie reverberates through years, eroding public trust and ultimately toppling careers. Likewise, the secrets within the book act as a corrosive agent, slowly dismantling the lives of those involved. This is not a simple case of cause and effect; it is a complex interplay of guilt, fear, and the desperate need for self-preservation. The importance of this element lies in its reflection of a fundamental human truth: Secrets, however small, have the power to shape destinies. The impact is not always immediate, but the consequences are often far-reaching and devastating.
The book explores this concept with unflinching honesty, delving into the psychological toll of living under the burden of concealed knowledge. It is a reminder that while secrets may offer temporary shelter, they ultimately create a prison of their own making. The characters in the book reveal how living in the shadow of these secrets undermines their ability to form genuine connections and live authentic lives, highlighting that full closure is not always attainable. It shows the struggle and the endurance that comes with knowing, and living with these secrets; the very essence of “Secrets’ long shadows”.
5. Truth’s elusive nature
Within Brigid Kemmerers “Call It What You Want,” the story isn’t merely about the events that transpire, but the fog surrounding them. The narrative showcases how facts become distorted, manipulated, and reinterpreted, often serving individual agendas. Initially, a single, pivotal incident triggers the story, yet its authentic details remain fragmented. Each character possesses a sliver of the truth, colored by personal bias and self-preservation. The result is a kaleidoscope of perspectives, where the very definition of what happened becomes a matter of interpretation. This fundamental ambiguity is not a flaw, but a deliberate choice, underlining the book’s central theme. The significance of truth’s elusive nature resides in its ability to question the very idea of objective reality, to force readers to confront their own assumptions about honesty and deception.
Consider, for instance, a trial based on circumstantial evidence. The jury must piece together fragments, weighing the credibility of witnesses and interpreting motives. Similarly, in the book, the reader acts as a juror, sifting through contradictory accounts to determine the most plausible version of events. Kemmerer strategically withholds key information, allowing the reader to experience the frustration and uncertainty that plagues the characters. The practical application here isn’t about solving a puzzle; it’s about recognizing the inherent limitations of human perception. The book urges one to question sources, to consider alternative explanations, and to acknowledge the possibility that absolute certainty may be unattainable.
In essence, “Call It What You Want” uses narrative to explore the subjective nature of truth. It highlights that “what happened” is less a fixed event and more a collection of perspectives, each shaped by individual experience. This can be challenged, as it presents an unresolvable picture that has ramifications. The novel pushes that this is a problem, while life often has many problems. The story challenges the desire for clear-cut answers, instead advocating for a deeper understanding of human motives and the complex interplay of individual narratives. Kemmerer’s novel is not simply a story, but an exploration of what happens when objective reality becomes irretrievably lost to subjectivity, making truth less of a solid object, and more of a fleeting phantom.
6. Second chances yearned
In Brigid Kemmerer’s novel, a central undercurrent is the yearning for second chances, a desire fueled by past mistakes and a longing for redemption. The characters grapple with consequences, not just for their own actions, but for those of others, creating a complex web of moral responsibility. The narrative explores whether individuals can truly escape the shadow of their past and construct a different future. This yearning is not simply a plot device; it is the emotional core of the story, driving character motivations and shaping relationships.
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Rebuilding Trust After Betrayal
A core aspect of seeking a second chance involves rebuilding shattered trust. In “Call It What You Want,” characters have betrayed one another, leading to deep-seated resentment and suspicion. The process of earning back trust is depicted as arduous and fraught with setbacks. Real-world parallels are seen in broken friendships or damaged professional relationships. The implications extend beyond mere forgiveness; it requires consistent action, unwavering honesty, and the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.
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Overcoming Societal Stigma
Beyond interpersonal dynamics, the novel explores the challenges of overcoming societal stigma associated with past mistakes. Characters face judgment and prejudice from their peers and community, making it difficult to reintegrate and start anew. The parallel can be drawn to individuals re-entering society after serving time in prison. The characters must navigate a world that is quick to label and slow to forgive. To seek a second chance they must overcome not just personal guilt, but also the weight of public opinion.
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Self-Forgiveness as a Prerequisite
The book suggests that true second chances begin with self-forgiveness. Characters must confront their own flaws, accept responsibility for their actions, and find a way to move forward without being consumed by regret. This is a difficult process, often requiring introspection and self-compassion. The novel explores how the inability to forgive oneself can sabotage attempts at redemption. Its a fundamental step, without which all other attempts at securing a second chance might collapse.
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The Potential for Growth and Change
Ultimately, “Call It What You Want” offers a message of hope, suggesting that genuine growth and change are possible. Characters who embrace responsibility, demonstrate a willingness to learn from their mistakes, and strive to make amends can find a path toward a better future. The novel illustrates that second chances are not simply about erasing the past, but about using it as a catalyst for personal transformation. The most important implication is the realization that personal growth can come from missteps in the past.
The yearning for second chances permeates every aspect of the narrative, shaping the characters’ journeys and underscoring the novel’s central message. The exploration of trust, societal stigma, self-forgiveness, and personal growth highlight the multifaceted nature of redemption and the enduring human desire to overcome adversity and create a brighter future. It is the constant struggle against the weight of the past that defines their present and drives their actions, making the pursuit of second chances the very heart of the book.
7. Consequences unfold slowly
In Brigid Kemmerer’s novel, the adage “consequences unfold slowly” rings with chilling accuracy. The book’s events don’t erupt in a single, explosive climax. Instead, a series of choices, seemingly minor at the time, sets in motion a chain reaction. Like a stone dropped in a pond, the ripples spread outward, widening with each passing day. Initially, the characters might perceive their actions as isolated incidents, contained within a defined moment. However, as the story progresses, they come to realize that the past is not easily escaped. The consequences linger, fester, and ultimately reshape their present.
Imagine a real-world scenario: a corporation knowingly cutting corners on safety regulations. In the short term, profits may increase, and the risks may seem minimal. However, years later, a catastrophic accident occurs, revealing the negligence and devastating lives. Similarly, in the novel, the characters’ youthful indiscretions return to haunt them, casting a long shadow over their relationships and future prospects. The book highlights the importance of considering the long-term implications of decisions, even those that seem insignificant in the moment. It is a reminder that every action has a reaction, and the true cost may not be immediately apparent.
The narrative structure mirrors this gradual unfolding. Clues are revealed slowly, piece by piece, forcing the reader to confront the complexities of the situation alongside the characters. This deliberate pacing amplifies the sense of dread and uncertainty, reinforcing the idea that consequences are not always immediate or predictable. Instead, they often manifest in unexpected ways, years after the initial event. By emphasizing the slow, inexorable nature of consequences, Kemmerer’s novel serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of choices and the importance of considering the long-term ramifications of one’s actions.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding That Novel
Understanding often arises from questioning. Here lies a collection of inquiries, born from intrigue and contemplation of themes within the novel. Each addresses a facet, meticulously revealing deeper understanding of the complex story.
Question 1: What single event casts a long shadow over the characters in the story?
The narrative stems from a shared transgression, an act of academic dishonesty that leads to severe consequences for both Declan and Maegan. This event forces them to navigate public shame and broken trust, their lives irreversibly changed by a singular choice. The repercussions ripple through their community, affecting relationships and shaping their futures. The act of plagiarism is the fulcrum around which their destinies pivot.
Question 2: How does the novel explore the theme of moral ambiguity?
The book deliberately avoids black-and-white morality. Instead, it presents characters grappling with complex situations where right and wrong are blurred. Declan’s actions to protect his family, though questionable, stem from a place of loyalty, while Maegan’s choices are often driven by a desire to reclaim control over her life. The narrative invites contemplation, not judgment, challenging the notion of easy answers.
Question 3: In what ways does the book portray the challenges of rebuilding trust?
Trust, once broken, proves a fragile construct. Characters struggle to forgive past betrayals and risk vulnerability. The novel demonstrates that trust is earned through consistent actions, unwavering honesty, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Forgiveness is not a passive acceptance; it is an active choice to rebuild a damaged foundation.
Question 4: What role does societal pressure play in shaping the characters’ decisions?
The small-town setting amplifies the impact of public scrutiny. Characters grapple with gossip, judgment, and the weight of expectations. The fear of ostracization often drives their decisions, forcing them to conceal truths and make compromises. Society becomes a character itself, shaping destinies and influencing outcomes.
Question 5: How does the author utilize shifting perspectives to reveal the truth?
The narrative unfolds through alternating viewpoints, granting insight into the inner thoughts and motivations of multiple characters. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which the events are filtered, revealing hidden layers and challenging assumptions. The truth is not a singular entity, but a mosaic of fragmented experiences.
Question 6: What is the ultimate message conveyed by the novel’s exploration of second chances?
The novel suggests that while the past cannot be erased, it can be a catalyst for growth and change. Second chances are earned, not granted, requiring self-forgiveness, accountability, and a commitment to making amends. Redemption is not about escaping consequences, but about learning from mistakes and striving for a better future. Hope can prevail over despair, and even the deepest wounds can heal. The hope is the central theme of redemption, or the promise of betterment.
Understanding, however, can be further expanded. As the discussion draws to a close, contemplation should persist. The complexities unveiled point the way to new inquiries, new arguments to contemplate.
An evaluation of critical acclaim and reader reception follows.
Navigating the Labyrinth
Within the pages, a narrative unfolds of youths entangled in circumstance. Lessons surface, not as didactic pronouncements, but as echoes resonating from the characters’ trials.
Tip 1: Embrace the Nuances of Truth. The book reveals the illusion of objectivity. The truth often exists as a collection of perspectives, each filtered through individual biases and experiences. Do not blindly accept narratives at face value; probe, question, and seek multiple viewpoints to construct a more complete understanding.
Tip 2: Acknowledge the Weight of Secrets. Secrets can provide temporary solace, they slowly erode trust and poison relationships. Acknowledge that suppressed truths can manifest in unforeseen and destructive ways. The path toward authenticity, though challenging, often lies in unveiling the hidden. Recognize as that the secrets are almost never small, or isolated incidents.
Tip 3: Practice Empathy in Judgement. Each character grapples with their own moral code. Before condemnation, attempt to understand the motivations behind actions. Moral complexities require nuanced consideration, acknowledging the gray areas that define much of human experience. Consider, and question why and how each person reached their own position.
Tip 4: Understand the Enduring Impact of Choices. Small decisions can set off a chain of events with far-reaching consequences. Contemplate the potential repercussions of actions, both immediate and long-term. The ripple effects of choices can extend beyond oneself, impacting entire communities.
Tip 5: Recognize Redemption as a Journey, Not a Destination. The path to redemption is rarely straightforward. It involves confronting past mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to change. Setbacks are inevitable, but perseverance can be the key to long term resolution.
Tip 6: Foster Resilience in the Face of Adversity. The book highlights the strength of the human spirit to withstand difficult situations. Cultivate inner fortitude, nurture supportive relationships, and remember that even in the darkest of times, hope remains a possibility.
These insights, drawn from the trials endured by the characters, serve as a guide for navigating the complexities of life. Understand that genuine growth often emerges from adversity, and empathy provides more clarity than immediate judgement.
The narrative provides the framework for the following discourse concerning the long term effect of narrative construction.
Echoes of Choice and Consequence
The narrative crafted by Brigid Kemmerer, commonly referred to as “call it what you want book brigid kemmerer,” is not merely a story of youthful indiscretion, but a study in the long echoes of choices. From a single act of desperation, a ripple effect expands, touching lives, testing loyalties, and forcing characters to confront the gray areas of morality. The book demonstrates how easily truths can be obscured, secrets can fester, and trust can be shattered. It illustrates that even with the best intentions, actions carry consequences, and the pursuit of redemption is a challenging, often painful journey.
In the end, “call it what you want book brigid kemmerer” serves as a mirror, reflecting the complexities of the human condition. It challenges everyone to consider the weight of their decisions, the importance of empathy, and the possibility of growth, even in the face of adversity. The book does not offer easy answers, but rather compels a deeper contemplation of personal values and the enduring power of choice. Its significance lies not only in its narrative but in its ability to spark conversation, challenge assumptions, and encourage a more nuanced understanding of the world and everyone’s place within it.
