We Were Here

Miguel notes that he and his roommate, Rondell, are polar opposites. For example, Rondell is largely illiterate and “a damn Bible thumper” (54), while Miguel spends all his time reading good quality literature. Rondell notes that it is “part of God’s plan” (55) that both of them have been detained in the group home.

Miguel is annoyed by many of Rondell’s mannerisms; specifically, his habit of saying “What” each time Miguel speaks, as well as his persistence in addressing Miguel as “Mexico.” Rondell continues to respond that all truth is contained within the Bible, and offers to share his Bible with Miguel at any time.

Miguel is overcome with pity for the other boy, and wonders if people have always taken advantage of his gullibility. He thanks Rondell for his offer to share the Bible and notes that Rondell isn’t “as bad as some other people [he’s] known” (57).

Mong, possessed of his normal eerie smile, approaches Rondell and Miguel in the backyard and questions Miguel as to his motivation for reading so many books. Miguel surprises himself by responding immediately with Rondell’s response to any opening conversation, which is, “What?” After recovering his composure, he responds that he reads books “[t]o see what happens” (58), although subsequently he wonders whether he should have responded to the question at all.