How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
The changed name was a mistake, and he would admit it as freely as you liked. But this mistake couldn't be undone now, so why must his father continually remind him how he had sinned? It was too late. (1.106)
Because Wilhelm has never come to terms with his mistakes, he believes that others in his life—especially his father—look down on him too. We think he's pretty spot-on with this one.
Quote #2
What had he to think back on that he could call good? Very, very little. You had to forgive. First, to forgive yourself, and then, general forgiveness. Didn't he suffer from his mistakes far more than his father could? (1.107)
Wilhelm's habit of berating himself whenever he looks in a mirror or thinks about his actions suggests that he isn't capable of forgiving himself for his wrongdoings and mistakes. Homeboy needs to pick up a self-help book or something, because this is getting depressing.
Quote #3
"Oh, God," Wilhelm prayed. "Let me out of my trouble. Let me out of my thoughts, and let me do something better with myself. For all the time I have wasted I am very sorry. Let me out of this clutch and into a different life. For I am all balled up. Have mercy." (1.107)
Although Wilhelm yearns for his father's forgiveness, he does not ask for forgiveness from God. Instead, his heartfelt prayer is for God's compassion and mercy—for relief from his troubles, his failures, and even his own thoughts.