Chapter 9 Analysis
In chapter nine, the focal point is the evidence of the case. Diana Leven learns that Alex Cormier, the judge of the case is Josie Cormier's mother. The connection of these two main characters creates an ironic tone that results in more tension as another conflict arises. Judge Cormier is legal to work on this case, but Diana Leven has different intentions. She wishes Cormier would recuse from the case, perhaps so the final decision will not be altered by interfering emotions.
The makeshift crosses found at the side of the highway in Sterling symbolize the sympathy the citizens of the town have for the family of the victims. This sympathy is so deep it shows how majority of the town does not understand Peter's situation, as Sterling will always feel sorrier for the victims.
Peter Houghton's cross demonstrates how he also was a victim. His cross is constantly vandalized and taken down, also showing the citizens respect for Peter.
During this time, Lacy realizes that her husband has not been visiting Peter like he says he is. This shows Lewis' sympathy for the victims families as we later learn he goes to visit the students at the cemetery. The audience may predict that again, Lewis is neglecting his son. This may be one of the factors that triggered the shooting. It leaves room for the audience to create personal opinions and decide in reality what can cause such a dramatic scene.
When Peter receives the letter in jail from a student writing a paper on bullied victims, the audience can predict hope. Not until later in the chapter do we learn that the "student", was actually a reporter and used Peter. The hope that Peter could gain help was an illusion. Picoult twisted the plot of the story to keep the audience on edge.
At the end of the chapter, a new relationship is formed. Patrick and Alex start to talk and become closer. A romantic mood is created to create more depth and add to the overall genre of the novel.