ABSTRACT
The progression into adolescence from childhood is fraught with persistent trepidations for all youth. Expectations rise for young people, as they are treated by adults with less tolerance and loaded with more responsibilities: the adolescent needs to attend to social concerns, become more proactive in self-care, and begin fulfilling goals beyond the protocols of familial and academic systems. Linklater integrates yet another commentary on Texas when Mason knocks on a house door clearly labeled 'No Soliciting,' and is then confronted by the middle-aged owner in the driveway. Father and son have more bonding opportunities over the course of the day, first setting out to swim in a lake. Linklater shoots their casual disrobing in juxtaposition to the prospective gravity of their discussion, as Mason realizes that the family may be facing yet another relocation since his mother is finishing her master's degree and applying to teaching positions.
