Rebekah's Observations

The dark side that Emil talks about is really universal; and not just for kids. It intrigues everyone. I don't think it's so much about wanting to become corrupted, but wanting to be your own; wanting to make your own decisions, rather than the cookie-cutter actions that are expected of you.

I found it interesting how Emil absentmindedly compares himself to the scarlet letter. He feels as though everyone can see what he's done. His corruptness is plastered on him, sin is now a part of him. He understands that this sin is permanent. What he doesn't understand is forgiveness, and, as you said in class, father's are our models of God. If the father is unsimpathetic and a believer in paying for our actions, where is Emil going to get the idea of freedom from sin. He's going to grow up beliveing that there is no hope. That we are all condmned to die. And although there is truth in that, that a price must be paid for sin, Christ has freely done it for us; for Emil.
            But, Emil doesn't know any of this. He still believes that he must pay for what he's done wrong. He doesn't see forgiveness as an option. This ten year old boy is carrying the weight of sin far greater than he will ever be able to repay. And he realizes this. He knows without thinking that he's not good enough to repay what he's done. He will always be a sort of imperfect.
At this point, life is bleak and purposeless for him. But the author forshadows in this little boy, a strong mind, a thinker. I predict he will search for the right answers in life. This is only the beginning of his adventure.