Solo

“Who am I? // I am / the wretched son / of a poor / rich man. // I do not hate / my life. […] My life is hmmm, / inconvenient.”

Blade describes his dysfunctional, rock star father, with details of wild afterparties and consequent negative coverage in the press. This quote is the first time Blade introduces himself, and that he describes himself as “wretched” and his father as “poor” despite being materially rich, demonstrates the significance of Blade’s resentment toward his father.

“But it would be the most romantic thing you’ve ever done // for me. And people would be talking about it for months.”

Chapel’s preoccupation with Blade creating a song for her in the moment he contemplates creating a song for the high school commencement illustrates her immaturity. Blade has the honor to give the speech, as the valedictorian has become ill, and instead, she attempts to convince Blade to create a performative love song about her.

“I Can’t Say I Blame Him // My family / stands for / too much / and not enough. // Too much celebrity / not enough dignity. / Too much excess / not enough kindness. // Too much Yes. / Not enough No / to drugs / to crude behavior / to breaking the law / to rock & roll.”

Though he doesn’t agree, Blade understands why Chapel’s father has forbidden Chapel from seeing him, emphasizing The Impact of Addiction and Fame on Family. This passage further provides context for Blade’s resentment toward Rutherford as he’s unable to enjoy a romantic relationship due to his father’s actions while struggling with substance abuse disorder.