Boyd aint goin nowhere. If I am he is. Boyd's a juvenile. They aint goin to turn him over to you. Hell. You're a juvenile yourself. I aint askin.
In the passage from "The Crossing" by Cormac McCarthy, there is a clear tension surrounding the character Boyd. The speaker asserts that Boyd will not be handed over to anyone, emphasizing Boyd's status as a juvenile. This implies that there are serious considerations regarding his welfare and the responsibilities that come with his youth. The speaker's tone suggests a protective instinct, as they question the intentions of others regarding Boyd's situation.
Additionally, the dialogue indicates a sense of defiance, as the speaker dismisses the authority of the person who seems to want Boyd. The phrase "You're a juvenile yourself" points to a shared vulnerability, suggesting that the individuals involved are trapped within circumstances beyond their control. Overall, the excerpt highlights themes of youth, protection, and the complexities of responsibility in difficult situations.
