Ishmael's Struggles with Civilians and Withdrawal

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Questions and Answers

How did the boys feel about the civilians?

They were infuriated by them. They didn't like being told what to do and refused to listen to them. All they wanted was drugs and guns.

What did the boys do to the nurse and staff members?

They chased off and threw around the staff when they came in to talk about counseling and medical checkups.

How were the boys becoming more violent, and why?

They would fight random neighbors, each other until they bled, and staff members due to suffering from drug withdrawal.

What angers Ishmael even more about the staff?

They keep coming back with a smile on their face, understanding that the attack was not their fault. Signup and view all the answers

How does withdrawal affect Ishmael?

He shakes violently, has constant migraines, and experiences unbearable sharp pain. Signup and view all the answers

What does Ishmael do that causes him to go to the hospital?

He punches a window for no reason, causing his hand to bleed uncontrollably. Signup and view all the answers

What causes Ishmael's second visit to the hospital, and what does the nurse do?

He fainted, and the nurse injected him with a needle that would put him to sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What memory does Ishmael remember?

He remembers being Junior Lieutenant to a small unit that raided and shot RUF soldiers at a base. Signup and view all the answers

What was Ishmael's nickname, and why?

The Green Snake, because he was good at sneaking up on his enemies. Signup and view all the answers

How did the boys treat the school supplies given to them?

At first, they burned the school supplies but later discovered they could sell them to a trader. Signup and view all the answers

What did the boys spend the money on?

They spent it on ice cream and drinks during a trip to Freetown. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the boys start to go to classes?

Their school supplies stopped selling, leaving them with no money to visit the city. Signup and view all the answers

How is Ishmael's life affected by war?

He wakes up in sweat, screaming or punching the air, and has mental blocks preventing thoughts of childhood. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the memory Ishmael has.

His friend Moriba was killed in a gunfight, leading to the search for a new base under heavy rain. Signup and view all the answers

What does the staff member say to Ishmael as he is walked back to the hall?

"This isn't your fault, you know. It really isn't. You'll get through this." Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Boys' Attitude Towards Civilians

Infuriated with civilians, perceiving them as authoritative and unwilling to listen.
Desires centered around drugs and weapons overshadow personal interactions.

Interactions with Medical Staff

Reacted violently towards nurses and staff members discussing counseling.
Chase and physical aggression characterized their response to medical checkups.

Increasing Violence and Drug Withdrawal

Engaged in fights with neighbors and amongst themselves, leading to injuries.
Drug withdrawal symptoms contributed to aggressive behavior.

Ishmael's Frustration with Staff

Staff's persistent positivity aggravates Ishmael's anger; they act as if their treatment is not influenced by conflict.
A strong desire for respect as a soldier from civilians remains unmet.

Impact of Withdrawal on Ishmael

Experiencing severe physical symptoms: violent shaking, migraines, and sharp pain.

Hospital Visits

First visit triggered by punching a window, resulting in uncontrollable bleeding; left soon after treatment.
Fainted during second visit; nurse administered sedative for rest.

Reflective Memories of War

Recalled moments as Junior Lieutenant, participating in successful raids against RUF soldiers while gaining supplies.
Adopted the nickname "The Green Snake" for his stealth in combat operations.

Treatment of School Supplies

Initially burned educational materials, later realized they could sell them for cash.
Shift in perspective led to monetary gain from previously wasted resources.

Spending Habits and School Attendance

Exuberant spending in Freetown on treats like ice cream, while lying to peers about funded trips.
Financial limitations from the halted sale of school supplies forced a return to classes.

Trauma from War

Nightmares and physical manifestations of trauma disturbed Ishmael’s sleep; memories of war overshadowed childhood recollections.

Distressing Memories from Combat

Remembered traumatic event where friend Moriba was killed; struggled under heavy rainfall and sustained gunfire.
After victorious battles, witnessed brutal treatment of captured enemies, numb to pain due to drug use.

Staff’s Reassurance

A staff member’s comforting message emphasized that Ishmael’s feelings of guilt were undeserved, promoting hope for recovery.

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Description

This quiz explores the tumultuous interactions Ishmael has with civilians and medical staff, highlighting his frustrations and aggressive tendencies. It delves into the impact of drug withdrawal on his behavior and relationships, providing insight into his psychological state during these confrontations.