Gus' Sorrowful Statement

While reading The Fault in Our Stars written by John Green, it is evident that the two main characters, Augustus and Hazel, have both experienced countless events of pain throughout their lives. Aside from plain physical pain, these two teenagers have gone through trials of hurting and being hurt by those around them, along with those who care for them, not to mention those who know them on a much deeper level than just the cancer that has seemed to consume them. One quote that really took me by the heart was when Augustus and Hazel Grace were discussing the pure issue of pain. “That's the thing about pain," Augustus said, and then glanced back at me. "It demands to be felt". This statement stuck with me because it is completely relevant to everyone, not just those who are dealing with sickness. This quote shows that pain is practically insidious and commands to not be ignored. No matter how hard these two adolescents attempt to push their pain away, it will return again and again until it is finally acknowledged. This is such a hard concept for these two to accept because they have already hurt others just by being burdened by their diseases. Aside from all of the treatments they must endure, Augustus and Hazel have to also think about how they will eventually hurt one another. No matter how long they push away the idea of dying and the concept of breaking each others hearts, these two optimistic teenagers know they have to deal with the pain they have previously experienced, the struggles they are going through, and the inevitable pain they will eventually encounter. Augustus seems to be the more realistic one throughout the novel, but he also happens to be the most optimistic character in the book. He rarely accepts Hazel's (at times) defeated attitude and never lets her give up hope. Hope for a better future, hope for better times, and hope for the long term continuation of their relationship. He speaks of their future as indefinite while also suggesting the possibility of their death at any moment. Gus' explanation that pain demands to be felt shows that there is no way for them to sidestep the literal pain and emotional grief they are forced to suffer with. This entire book is so captivating because of the way John Green describes the pain felt by the two characters in a way that we can relate to. Just as us healthy humans are unable to force out the thought of pain while it is tugging on our anatomical being, these two cancer stricken teenagers must deal with this battle on a daily basis.