Forgiveness In 'Boo' By Neil Smith

The Truth of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is generally the ability to renounce one’s desire to punish others for their transgressions. However, there are occasions when one needs to absolve oneself of past transgression as well. In the novel BOO, Neil Smith illustrates how when Boo is in heaven, he begins to break down the barriers that separate him from socializing with others. He realizes the implications of isolating himself from the rest of the world. More importantly, he learns to establish a good relationship with other people, and to trust them in order to attain a meaningful life. Smith suggests that it is only through forgiveness of himself, that Boo is able to recover from the past bitterness and move on.

Forgiveness enables Boo to free himself from living in seclusion, and to renounce his cynical attitude. When Johnny is separated from him, Boo feels the effects of loneliness: “[Boo] feels lonely having [his] room to [himself]. [He is] glad Johnny left many of his drawings behind to adorn the walls” (Smith 163). Boo appears to appreciate his friendship with Johnny, and he despairs when Johnny is not around. Undoubtedly, Boo knows that he must

As Boo visits Johnny in the jail, he starts to questions himself, “Should I hug Johnny [?] I am usually allergic to hugs, but ought I make an exception?” (179). He appears to understand that forgiveness is to forego the past, and come to terms with the present. The thought of hugging Johnny embodies the essence of forgiveness. It is a critical step for Boo to identify and admit his past transgression, which can be attributed to his deviant behavior in the past. He becomes aware that as a social being, there is the need for him to communicate and interact with people in order to function in a society. Eventually, he realizes that isolating himself is an act of selfishness and