Here in the Real World

The setting of the novel is enriched by vivid imagery that reflects Ware’s unique perception of the world and effectively blends his imagination with reality. Ware gets his best ideas while submerged in water, and this is captured early on in a striking sensory description: “He slowly filled his lungs with the sunscreeny air—hot and sweet, as if someone was frying coconuts nearby—and slipped into the deep end. The bricks seemed to double in weight, sinking him softly to the bottom” (3). This sensory-filled view of the world sets Ware apart, especially in how he notices details that others overlook, such as the way neon light from a nearby bar reflects in the rain: “He stopped, squinting his eyes at the sign, trying to re-create the rain slide of electric colors” (30). Ware consistently applies medieval imagery to the modern world, using his knowledge of history to interpret his environment. For example, he observes, “Castle designers incorporated sundials on south-facing walls like this, public timepieces for the villagers” (32-33), and turns an ordinary church wall into something of ancient significance. Ware declares the ruined church his castle, reflecting the theme of Seeing the World Clearly. It gives him a sense of order and autonomy in an otherwise confusing and unpredictable world.

Ware’s character is defined by his deep inner life and social isolation, which others often misunderstand or ridicule. He is frequently in a world of his own, prompting even elderly men at the retirement home to mock him for being “spaced out.” Ware ponders things that most children don't, such as what humans would be like if they were ants or how the pool lights appear from underwater. Rather than actively participate in groups, Ware prefers observing from the margins, and this is a tendency that adults disapprove of and often try to correct. For instance, his experiences at the daycare when he was younger made it clear to him that staying on the outside was seen as wrong. Still, Ware begins to show growth by standing up for himself when he tells his parents he doesn’t want to attend the rec center and feels ready to stay home alone. A key theme that emerges in this section is Renewal and Rebirth, seen through Ware’s desire to start over as a person after constantly being labeled as an outsider, a social outcast, or simply “wrong.” This goal becomes especially important after Ware overhears his parents wishing they had a “normal kid,” further motivating his decision to change how he is seen.

The story includes many recurring symbols and motifs that reflect Ware’s inner world and the story’s major themes. Ware is fascinated by the Middle Ages and dreams of turning his backyard (and then the church lot) into a castle, symbolic of his longing for clarity and structure. The medieval world, in his eyes, was a time when “If you were a knight, you knew where you stood” (14), whereas in the modern world, he constantly feels disoriented and unsure of social expectations. Bird symbolism foreshadows Ware’s journey of transformation early on: “An egret, as white and smooth as though carved from soap, glided through the purpling sky. In a movie, a single flying bird like that would let you know that the main character was starting out on a journey” (5). The ruined church also becomes a powerful motif and setting, representing a place of second chances, where Ware begins to redefine himself. His growing relationship with Jolene is shown in symbolic terms as well, particularly when he describes her guarded personality through a medieval lens: “Castle battlements were slotted with narrow openings called arrow slits, through which guards could shoot approaching enemies without being targets themselves. Ware got the impression that the girl’s blue eyes functioned pretty much the same way” (49-50).

Here in the Real World uses similes and metaphorical comparisons to deepen the understanding of Ware’s perspective and relationships. One simile appears when Ware is caught in the aftermath of his grandmother’s fall: “She raised one bony arm like a rifle and aimed her finger right at Ware” (6), which dramatizes the tension and blame Ware feels. These chapters also use literary devices to highlight Ware’s growing admiration for Jolene and her quiet strength. For instance, when Ware observes Jolene’s plants, he notes they seem “feathery and brave at the same time” (48), a description that simultaneously captures the vulnerability and resilience Ware sees in Jolene. Jolene, in turn, values her plants for their dependability, telling Ware, “They’re better than magic. You can count on them” (48).

The story uses plot events to initiate Ware’s character development. It begins with a disruption, as Ware’s grandmother is hospitalized, and the sudden change removes the one adult who truly understands and protects him. This catalyzes the plot and forces Ware into the uncomfortable environment of the rec center. This shift sets up a deeper emotional tension; Ware’s mental and emotional isolation becomes more pronounced, especially as those around him make fun of him or shut him out. His mother, for example, frequently withholds information under the justification that “that’s not something for a child to worry about” (26), adding to his sense of exclusion and feeling patronized. Despite this, Ware begins to assert himself more, reflecting the theme of Finding One’s Purpose. He surprises even himself with his newfound willingness to speak up, which foreshadows his growth into a leader.

Jolene is also important to Ware’s character development. His first encounter with her is jarring and almost magical, sparking a change within him. When she holds his hand, it feels “glowing” and “fuzzy,” hinting at an emotional awakening. A key turning point occurs when Ware sees his reflection in Jolene’s sunglasses: “In her mirrored glasses, Ware saw himself reflected. Looking back was the most pathetic kid in the world” (40). This moment marks Ware’s growing awareness of how he is perceived and his desire to change that perception. Further tension builds when Ware overhears his parents speaking privately and expressing disappointment in his behavior, wishing they had a “normal kid.” This causes him to retreat emotionally, even as he forges a deeper connection with Jolene. When she finally agrees to let Ware “have” the church ruins and help him fill the tub, it becomes clear that this space will serve as a place of transformation for Ware.