People change people. In the novel Tangerine, by Edward Bloor, Paul changes his attitude, perspective, and actions based on the character influences around him. Even though Paul starts off shy and timid of his older brother Erik, he learns that he must stand up for himself or Erik will always win, and as he is exposed to more characters and environments he begins to develop as a character to be more outspoken. Paul was the family Runt, constantly being ignored and overlooked. Paul could never speak of anything due to the fear of his brothers reaction “I didn’t know what else to say! I didn’t know how to describe the harm he would do to me.” (38). If I was ever threatened like Erik does to Paul, I wouldn’t have the guts to say anything either. …show more content…
We see this change when Paul goes from shy kid to daring hero in seconds to save his classmates “We pulled and grabbed at kids as they made their way up the slippery incline to the top.” (82). This was one of the first big dynamic change we see in Paul. As Paul is exposed to more his character grows immensely. The biggest risk we see Paul take is when his new friends decide to give Erik and Arthur what they deserve during the senior football night. As his friends are about to be busted Paul swoops in and saves them by attacking a teacher so his friends can escape. This shows the internal change Paul has had throughout the story. From shy and humble to brave and risky, Paul was definitely the most dynamic character in Tangerine. Paul gained the courage he needed to stand up to Erik with the experience and wisdom he learned from the ones around him. Paul realizes that standing up for yourself isn’t easy, but when you do it, you will be treated and respected for your actions and those who have wronged you will be punished. Your environment plays a big role in the development of you as a