Main Answer:
Charlie fears he will become like he was and like the boy in the restaurant (a).
Therefore, the correct answer is a) He fears he will become like he was and like the boy in the restaurant.
Step-by-step explanation:
As Charlie grapples with the effects of his surgery reversing, the fear that he will revert to his previous state and become like the boy in the restaurant looms large. This fear is deeply rooted in the narrative's exploration of identity and self-awareness. Throughout the story, Charlie undergoes a profound transformation, both intellectually and emotionally, as a result of the experimental surgery. The prospect of returning to his former self represents not only a regression in his cognitive abilities but also a regression in his sense of self-worth and belonging.
This fear is not merely about losing the intellectual gains he made; it's about losing the relationships and connections he formed during his journey. Charlie's anxiety reflects the fragility of his newfound identity and the uncertainty of whether the changes are sustainable. The mention of the boy in the restaurant adds a poignant layer to his fear, as it symbolizes the potential erasure of all progress and a return to a state of vulnerability and alienation.
In this pivotal moment, the narrative raises questions about the permanence of change and the enduring impact of personal growth. Charlie's fear encapsulates the overarching theme of the novel, exploring the complexities of human nature, identity, and the constant struggle for self-improvement.
Therefore, the correct answer is a) He fears he will become like he was and like the boy in the restaurant.