35 pages • 1 hour read
Jason ReynoldsFor Every One
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | YA | Published in 2018A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Chapter 2Chapter Summaries & Analyses
Chapter 2 Summary
Jason Reynolds shares his understanding of the intense emotions associated with pursuing dreams. He describes the visceral sensation of an internal struggle, describing it as “a spirit thing…raking the metal mug” (37), a disruptive force that echoes within. He acknowledges the discomfort caused by the “controlling” and “oppressive part” of oneself, as well as societal expectations.
Despite challenges, Reynolds prefers inner conflict over a sense of stagnation, and the taste of near success over complacency and nothingness. He also compares his dream to a “colicky / infant”; although his dream occasionally needs changing, most of the time, it simply requires nourishment. By feeding the dream, he receives nourishment in return. He embraces the challenge and encourages fellow dreamers to “JUMP ANYWAY,” and to embrace the uncertainty that accompanies their aspirations.
Chapter 2 Analysis
Reynolds emphasizes the visceral experience of possessing an unrelenting dream. He describes it as a persistent, almost intrusive force, likening it to a “spirit thing” scraping a “metal mug / across your rib cage” (37). It evokes a discomforting yet compelling sensation, and echoes the inner turmoil and unrest caused by unfulfilled ambition. Reynolds suggests that dreams are uncontainable and cannot be restrained or subdued.
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By Jason Reynolds
