My theory is that hope is a form of madness. A benevolent one, sure, but madness all the same. Like an irrational superstition-broken mirrors and so forth-hope's not based on any kind of logic, it's just unfettered optimism, grounded in nothing but faith in things beyond our control.
Hope, Life Lessons, Superstition
Oscar was raised to believe that if he stayed in his room reading about made up worlds it meant he didn't appreciate the life he had, the possessions his parents had worked hard for, like the TV and the video and the newly turfed back garden.
Books
Actually, I think it's the opposite. We know each other so well there isn't anything left to say. Sometimes it's nice just sitting here with you all, thinking. It's only best friends who can be comfortable with silence, wouldn't you say?
Friendship, Best Friends