Character Analysis: AJ Olsen
Andrew "AJ" Olsen is Samantha McAllister's primary love interest and a key member of Poet's Corner. Initially presented as a guarded "keymaster," his reluctance to welcome Sam stems from a shared history: Sam and Kaitlyn bullied him in elementary school because of his stutter. Throughout the novel, AJ evolves into a supportive partner, using his music to inspire and heal.
Who Is He?
AJ is more than just a love interest; he's a symbol of redemption and the power of vulnerability. He embodies the idea that past hurts can be overcome and that true connection is built on honesty. His journey from a bullied, withdrawn child to a confident musician and caring friend is a testament to the transformative power of art and self-acceptance.
Personality & Traits
AJ is a complex character whose initial guardedness masks a deep well of empathy and artistic passion. His journey is marked by a gradual opening up, revealing a capacity for forgiveness and a commitment to authenticity.
- Guarded and Reserved: Due to past trauma, AJ is initially distrustful, especially towards Sam. He tends to keep to himself, often walking with his head down to avoid attention.
- Confident Performer: On stage at Poet's Corner, AJ transforms into a charismatic musician, comfortable sharing his emotions through song. This contrast highlights the power of art as a safe space for self-expression.
- Honest and Direct: AJ values honesty, which he calls "blurting." He encourages Sam to speak her mind and is straightforward about his own feelings, contrasting the manipulative social dynamics of Sam's other friendships.
- Kind and Forgiving: Despite the pain Sam caused him, AJ eventually forgives her and welcomes her into his world. His supportive friendship with Emily, especially during her mother's illness, showcases his caring nature.
- Vulnerable: AJ shares his personal story of overcoming his stutter through music, demonstrating his willingness to be open and authentic with Sam.
Character Journey
AJ's journey is about learning to trust and opening himself up to vulnerability. Initially, he acts as a gatekeeper, wary of letting Sam into Poet's Corner due to their shared history. However, intrigued by Sam's desire for change, he allows her in "one time," marking the first step in his transformation. As he gets to know the new Sam, his walls begin to crumble. Inviting her to his house and sharing the story of his stutter is a pivotal moment, shifting their dynamic from acquaintances to genuine friends. From setting boundaries ("let's not push the 'friends' thing") to actively seeking a deeper connection, AJ evolves into a safe space for Sam to reveal her own vulnerabilities, ultimately helping her confront and accept her mental illness.
Key Relationships
- Samantha McAllister: The relationship between AJ and Sam is the heart of the novel. It evolves from distrust and resentment to forgiveness, friendship, and eventually, deep romantic love. AJ sees past Sam's "perfect" facade and encourages her authentic self, while she offers him the acceptance he lacked as a child.
- Poet's Corner Members: As a leader within the poetry club, AJ is protective and supportive. His close friendship with Emily showcases his loyalty and kindness, highlighting his role as a caretaker within the group.
- Caroline Madsen: Though AJ never knew the real Caroline Madsen, he serves as a steward of her legacy as the keymaster of Poet's Corner. He delivers the news of her suicide to Sam, a moment that forces them to confront difficult truths and deepens their bond.
Defining Moments
- First Performance: AJ's performance of "So Long, Lazy Ray" captivates Sam and motivates her to join Poet's Corner. It showcases his talent and the stark contrast between his shy demeanor and his confident stage presence.
- The Apology: Sam's poem apologizing for her past actions marks the beginning of AJ's willingness to forgive her and see her as a changed person.
- The Guitar Lesson: In his bedroom, AJ shares the story of his stutter and how music helped him find his voice. This moment of shared vulnerability is the true beginning of their friendship and intimacy.
- The First Kiss: At the swim club, AJ encourages Sam to "blurt" her feelings, leading to their first kiss. This scene solidifies their romantic connection and their commitment to honesty.
- "Wondering" Reading: During a P.M. meeting, AJ reads a poem he wrote about Sam, publicly revealing his feelings and their relationship to the rest of the Poets.
- Revealing the Truth: AJ is forced to tell Sam the truth about Caroline Madsen's death. It is a painful, shocking moment that tests their relationship but ultimately brings them closer as Sam begins to open up about her own mind.
Essential Quotes
"I know who you are, Samantha."
AJ's statement is loaded with meaning, hinting at his awareness of Sam's hidden vulnerabilities and the facade she presents to the world. It suggests that he sees her more clearly than anyone else does, setting the stage for their deep connection.
"I transferred to a new school in fifth grade, but as you can probably imagine, I was a big target there, too. My mom finally took me to see a speech therapist... Eventually, it seemed easier to just stop talking. But then, in seventh grade, I had this incredible music teacher. She handed me a guitar... Then, one day, I started singing. And when I did, the stutter disappeared completely."
This quote reveals the root of AJ's guardedness and the transformative power of music in his life. It explains how he found his voice through art, a journey that parallels Sam's own struggle to find her voice through poetry.
"I’m so glad I just kissed you. I’ve wanted to kiss you for weeks, long before that day at my house, and right now I really want to kiss you again."
AJ's honesty and directness are on full display in this quote, showcasing his willingness to be vulnerable and express his feelings openly. It highlights the contrast between his authentic approach to relationships and the superficiality of Sam's other connections.
"I never told Devon about Poet’s Corner. She never met any of my friends, not even Cameron. She knew I played guitar, but I never showed her my songs or anything... We’re just…different, Sam. In every way that matters."
This quote underscores the depth of AJ's connection with Sam, emphasizing that their relationship is built on a level of understanding and authenticity that he never shared with his previous girlfriend. It highlights the importance of shared vulnerability and genuine connection.
After you left I sat in my room Remembering all the things you said, and Wondering about all the things you didn’t.
This excerpt from AJ's poem reveals his introspective nature and his ability to capture complex emotions in his art. It showcases his sensitivity and his willingness to explore the unspoken aspects of human connection.
Symbolism
AJ symbolizes healing, forgiveness, and finding one's voice. His journey of overcoming his stutter mirrors Sam's struggle to speak her truth while hiding her OCD. He represents a healthier and more authentic form of connection for Sam, standing in direct opposition to the superficiality she experiences in her other friendships and crushes. His music is a literal and metaphorical representation of turning pain into art and finding strength in vulnerability.