Quote 22
Augustus did not die after a lengthy battle with cancer. He died after a lengthy battle with human consciousness, a victim—as you will be—of the universe's need to make and unmake all that is possible. (21.24)
Hazel's responses to religious sentiment don't always go over well. Is her cynical take on the way of the world just a coping mechanism? Or is that just how she sees things?
Quote 23
I went on spouting bulls*** Encouragements as Gus's parents, arm in arm, hugged each other and nodded at every word. Funerals, I had decided, are for the living. (22.20)
Even if she doesn't believe a word of it, Hazel cannot deny Augustus's parents the comfort of their spirituality.
Quote 24
"I'm a grenade," I said again. "I just want to stay away from people and read books and think" (6.72)
Hazel's all about not hurting other people—even when it hurts here. She wants to be as passive as possible in order to not be responsible for any pain. Is this courageous? Or just silly?