Carlton’s impending death hangs over the story from early on, when Bobby says, “Here is Carlton several months before his death” (2), yet this is not just a story of death; it is a story of brotherly love. The love between the two boys is never in question. Despite the age difference, Carlton enjoys hanging out with his little brother, and even though Carlton recklessly introduces his younger brother to various substances, he also loves him and believes himself to be broadening Bobby’s mind, rather than endangering him. Bobby relies on his brother’s guidance and confidence, and Carlton wants his brother to approach the world with the same sense of wonder and confidence that he has. He tells his brother, “There’s not a thing in this pretty world to be afraid of. I’m here” (2).

Of course, there are things to be afraid of, but the dangers are never what the characters expect. Carlton’s death is framed as a bizarre accident, not as a direct result of intoxication or reckless behavior. The other deaths mentioned in the story are random, too—planes drop out of the sky and kill families sitting in their homes. Death and pain are always threatening to descend from nowhere, and the brothers’ parents are more aware of this.