Question

Which of these themes--hopelessness, loneliness, identity crisis--is being shown in this quote by Nurzhan as he tries to stand up for Maya who had been only playing around with the boys after school, "It did no good. They don't know about things here, only their own ways. They are like stone" (19).

Answer 1

Hopelessness or loneliness

Nurzhan is trying to stand up for Maya, but he feels isolated and alone because the boys around him are not understanding his perspective or understanding of the situation. Its hopeless, and this gives off a feeling of loneliness as well. (Hope this helps some how)