That Was Then This Is Now Chapter Summaries 1-5

Study Notes

Chapter 1 Summary

Bryon and Mark visit a bar where they owe money to bartender Charlie; they are warned about consequences if they don’t pay.
Encounter with M&M, a hippie child, who informs them about his sister Cathy coming home.
At a bowling alley, Mark tries to get money from M&M, but he lacks funds, prompting Mark and Bryon to defend M&M from the Curly Shepard gang.
Mark's suggestion to attack a random man angers M&M, highlighting themes of violence and morality; M&M leaves amidst disgust.

Chapter 2 Summary

Bryon and Mark visit their mother in the hospital, struggling financially even after selling possessions to cover medical bills.
Bryon meets Cathy, M&M's sister; they awkwardly reconnect and he realizes she has returned from private school.
Bryon meets Mike Chambers, a boy beaten for trying to prevent his gang from harassing a black girl, provoking reflections on racism and bravery.
Bryon's internal conflict emerges as he processes Mike's story and debates the definitions of stupidity and courage with Mark.

Chapter 3 Summary

Bryon seeks a job; Charlie allows him to borrow a car for a dance where he plans to take Cathy.
Mark opts to go out with friends instead of a date, introducing Ponyboy Curtis, who Bryon dislikes due to past experiences with an ex-girlfriend.
Bryon becomes nervous during the dance, especially when Angela confronts him; their encounter serves as a reminder of unresolved feelings.
The evening escalates when Mark is attacked by Angela's hired thug, leading to Bryon hospitalizing Mark, who feels strengthened by their brotherly bond.

Chapter 4 Summary

Bryon returns Charlie’s car, discovers Charlie received a draft notice for Vietnam, and reminisces childhood with Mark about their simpler times.
School dynamics shift as Mark returns as a perceived hero; Bryon feels increasingly alienated as he recognizes social stratification among classmates.
After Mark's arrest for hotwiring cars to visit his probation officer, Bryon grapples with concerns about his brother's reckless behavior despite Mark's charm.

Chapter 5 Summary

Bryon visits Mike, who feels worse after his father’s sudden visit; Bryon avoids confronting heavy emotions by spending time with Cathy.
Bryon and Cathy start dating; they go to hustle pool with Mark and borrow money from M&M, winning against tough opponents.
A violent confrontation with the Texans occurs, leading to Charlie's tragic death after a shooting.
Bryon is deeply affected by the incident, feeling guilt and change, while Mark begins acting defensively towards Bryon’s relationship with Cathy, indicating tension and growing differences between the brothers.

Description

Explore the key events from chapters 1 to 5 of 'That Was Then, This Is Now'. This flashcard quiz highlights important character interactions and plot developments, focusing on Bryon and Mark's experiences. Test your understanding of the themes and relationships in this coming-of-age story.