Oscar and the Lady in Pink

Oscar picks up his letter-writing the very next day: “Today I went through my teenage years and it wasn’t a very smooth ride” (29). He summarizes the day as a hassle involving trouble with friends and parents because of girls. Oscar reveals that he has a crush on Peggy Blue, a girl “like a fairy who’s just come to hospital for a bit of rest” (31). A blood disease causes Peggy’s skin to take a bluish tint, which Oscar adores.

At Granny Rose’s encouragement, Oscar visits Peggy and offers to protect her from ghosts in the hospital. To his disappointment, Oscar learns that his friend Popcorn has already spoken for Peggy, so he kisses another girl, Cleopatra, instead. Oscar’s parents arrive in time to see the awkward kiss, cementing his embarrassment and frustration.

In his room, Oscar confronts his parents about their visit the previous day. His parents avoid talking about their visit and Oscar’s death, and they leave without resolving the tension. Granny Rose visits and cheers Oscar up with another of her wrestling stories, then encourages him to talk to Peggy again.

Oscar approaches Peggy with confidence, telling her she’s beautiful just as she is with her blue skin.