Milkweed Quotes

During the book Milkweed, Uri goes through a physical and mental/emotional change. He was very protective of Misha and “free living” before all of the attacks and the ghetto was formed but after he had to go incognito so he didn’t get taken to the camps. He barely talked to Misha and worked a regular job outside of the ghetto. However, we later learn that this was all to protect Misha and others. Uri changes into a very protective figure in Misha’s life.
My first quote supports my thesis by showing how Uri really wants Misha to be safe and free. “Uri!” He had not been around in a long time. I hugged him. He pushed me away. “Shut up,” he said. “Just listen.” He smacked me on the back of the head. “Are you listening?” “Yes,” I said. “Get out,” he said. “Get out?” He wore a blue-and-white armband just like mine. “I’m not going to say it again. Get. Out.” I was confused. “Get out of where?” “Out of the ghetto. Out of Warsaw. Out of everywhere. Just get out. Go. And don’t look back.” This shows how Uri really wanted the best for Misha because he really did care for him even when he was harsh.

The following quote shows what people had to do just to help themselves and other loved ones. “I tried to run to her, but the dog wouldn’t let me go, and then the dog was gone and a boot came swinging and I was kicked so hard I popped off the ground. When I landed, a club pounded my shoulders and I was kicked again and the Jackboot was dragging me by the hair and there was laughing and clacking of Jackdog teeth. The Jackboot flung me against a wall. I saw his hand go to his holster. I saw the gun come out and point between my eyes. “Die, piglet!” The voice. I looked up. The red hair. The face. “Uri!” I cried, and the gun went off.” This represents how Uri went the great length of becoming a Nazi soldier just to protect himself and his loved