Perks of Being a Wallflower

"He's a wallflower...You see things. You keep quiet about them. And you understand."

Patrick, Page 95

When Patrick says this about Charlie during the Homecoming Weekend party, he contrasts the "perks" of being a wallflower with the negative aspects, which are seen in Charlie's difficulty interacting with others and preoccupation with observing rather than participating. Patrick affirms Charlie's position in society: the reserved Charlie is able to sit back and listen, yet he still understands and is valuable to his friends. This validation of Charlie's behavior is a turning point in the novel. From this point forward, it is easier for Charlie to find value in himself. He finds it easier to participate in the events around him, and he spends less time second-guessing what he is about to say or do. He may still struggle with his deep and complex thoughts, often reverting back to a reflective position, but he finally has the confidence to act and feel as though he belongs.

"When we got out of the tunnel, Sam screamed this really fun scream, and there it was. Downtown. Lights on buildings and everything that makes you wonder. Sam sat down and started laughing. Patrick started laughing. I started laughing. And in that moment, I swear we were infinite."

Charlie, Page 98

As he drives through Pittsburgh with the girl he loves and his best friend, Charlie starts the process of living in the moment and soaking up what the present has to offer. Many times throughout his letters, Charlie describes the situations of other people and tries to delve deeper into the causes of their actions, but this drive marks the first instance of firm focus on himself and on how he is feeling in a precise moment: infinite. He and his friends can do anything or feel anything: happiness is not out of reach. Charlie's tendency to reflect first is not abandoned in this scene, since he still remarks that the lights represent everything that makes him wonder. But now, he is able to observe and participate simultaneously. His feelings of infinity are the culmination of many influences - sexual awareness of Sam, friendship with Patrick, and the sheer happiness of being a group, of enjoying music and laughter. Together, they are endless.

For additional quotes, check out GradeSaver's "Quptes and Analysis" in its study guide for the unit.