Hide and Seeker

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of mental illness, illness, and death.

“Zee never shoulda come back. Not like this.”

As the opening line, this quote immediately starts the story with suspense and questions, like who Zee is as a character and why his return is a problem. The vague but conflict-filled phrase “Not like this” uses foreshadowing to hint at something troubling about Zee’s return, suggesting conflict without revealing details. The text also conveys regret through the speaker’s tone, hinting at unresolved issues or mistakes related to Zee’s past.

“I feel lower than gum on the bottom of a shoe. Since Zee was released from the hospital two weeks ago, I’ve only stopped by once, to tie a ‘Welcome Home’ balloon on the mailbox. I didn’t even go inside to see him. […] It’s just…I didn’t want to see him so messed up.”

This metaphor of feeling “lower than gum on the bottom of a shoe” vividly conveys Justin’s guilt and shame. The metaphor emphasizes his belief that he is unworthy or insignificant, mirroring his emotional turmoil. The use of ellipses suggests hesitation and avoidance, hinting at Justin’s discomfort in confronting his failure as a friend. Since The Strength of Friendship and Unity is a central theme, this passage highlights Justin’s internal struggle and the emotional distance he’s created between himself and Zee.

“Indigestion and nausea play tag in my stomach.”

This description uses the personification of indigestion and nausea to make Justin’s physical discomfort feel almost like an uncontrollable game. By referencing the game of tag, the