"They say she bawled bloody murder and refused to come into the house, so Uncle Herm finally had to drag his whole family away before they even had a chance to take their coats off."
Dictionary Definition
Verb: to withhold the accepting, following, or permitting of something
Explanation:
This word helps with the story because the cousin was adamant about not entering the house after coming into contact with him. This made him feel powerful not sorry about the confrontation. He had given himself control about what someone else could and could not do.
"Strolling and gawking at the houses and whistling a happy little dorky tune like some Sneezy or Snoozy or whatever their names are."
Dictionary Definition
Verb: to stare stupidly
Explanation:
This word lets the reader believe that Penn is weaker than Crash. If Penn is looking around "stupidly" then Crash must be smarter than that poor Penn.
"Which wasn't that hard since his chest was so scrawny."
Dictionary Definition
Adjective: poorly nourished
Explanation:
This word illustrates that Crash is a big guy. On the other hand, it illustrates that Penn is a little guy, at least smaller than Crash. Once again, this word shows that Crash feels power, physical, over Penn.
"I could tell it only had one word. 'What's it say?' 'Peace,' he said."
Dictionary Definition
Noun: freedom from public disturbance or war
Explanation:
This word shows that Penn doesn't want to participate in or approve of violence. This is a result of his religious beliefs. But the fact that he wears this on a button shows that he believes in a peaceful world. He is strong in his beliefs.