Answer:
here are examples of how each character (Buck, Dani, and Uncle Mark) affects Will and his final decision in "Long Way Down" by Jason Reynolds:
1. **Buck**: Buck is Will's older brother, who was shot and killed. Buck's death is the central event that sets the story in motion. Will grapples with his grief over losing his brother, and throughout the novel, he reflects on the choices Buck made and how they led to his death. Buck's influence on Will is profound, as Will is compelled to seek vengeance for his brother's murder, setting him on a path of violence.
2. **Dani**: Dani is a girl who enters the elevator during Will's ride, and her presence challenges Will's perspective. Dani knows about Will's intentions and questions his decision to seek revenge. She shares her own story, revealing the cycle of violence in their neighborhood. Dani's character serves as a voice of reason and reflection for Will, causing him to question his actions and consider the consequences of perpetuating violence.
3. **Uncle Mark**: Uncle Mark is a family member who serves as a cautionary example for Will. He was once involved in a similar cycle of violence and revenge but has since turned his life around. Uncle Mark's presence reminds Will that there are alternatives to seeking revenge, and he encourages Will to break the cycle of violence that has plagued their family. Will's interactions with Uncle Mark challenge his beliefs and prompt him to reconsider his final decision.
. **Holloman**: Holloman is one of the people whom Will encounters during his elevator ride. Holloman is a friend who was also a victim of gun violence and died as a result. His appearance in the elevator serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of violence in their neighborhood. Holloman's silent presence forces Will to confront the cycle of violence that has claimed the lives of his friends.
2. **Frick**: Frick is another character Will encounters in the elevator. Frick was involved in a violent altercation with Shawn, and his presence underscores the interconnections between characters and the cycle of retaliation. Frick's fate is a stark reminder of the danger and unpredictability of violence, which influences Will's thoughts about seeking revenge.
3. **Shawn**: Shawn is Will's older brother who was shot and killed. His death is the catalyst for the story, and his memory looms large over Will's decision-making process. Throughout the novel, Will reflects on the close bond he shared with Shawn and grapples with the idea of avenging his brother's death. Shawn's character represents the complexity of familial ties, love, and the weight of the past.
In "Long Way Down," these characters play pivotal roles in shaping Will's perspective and influencing his ultimate decision regarding whether to continue the cycle of violence or break free from it.
Step-by-step explanation: