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In Monster, what lesson does Steve learn from other inmates that could benefit his future?
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Steve learns from other inmates that survival in the justice system often requires compromising one's principles. They emphasize that escaping conviction is paramount, even if it means lying. This perspective challenges Steve's understanding of truth, which he initially believes is absolute. Ultimately, he realizes that maintaining his integrity may not be possible if he wants to avoid a guilty verdict. Consequently, Steve alters his testimony, prioritizing his freedom over strict adherence to truth.
Steve Harmon spends time in jail for a crime he did not commit, and he awaits his trial, hoping for absolution. While he is in prison, he listens to the advice of other inmates, particularly in regards to those awaiting their sentences. One piece of advice strikes him in particular, and he uses these words to help him convince his jury not to convict him.
The prisoners state that the most important thing to them anymore is getting out of prison—and if you have a chance, like Steve does, at escaping conviction, you take it and run. Imprisoned and awaiting trial is not a time to start acting righteous, it's a time to get out. So, the men reason, if you must lie to get out of prison, you do it. Truth, they claim, is a relative thing in that situation: it is only what you know and believe to...
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be true, not necessarily what truly happened. So, Steve stakes a claim to prove his innocence regardless of the facts of what actually happened, and he is absolved of the charges.
Towards the end of the novel, two inmates are discussing their legal proceedings. One of the inmates comments that he has no other choice but to lie while he is on the witness stand because telling the truth will result in a ten-year sentence. The other inmate comments that once you're in the system, there is no time "to get all holy," and you need to focus on getting out any way possible. When the other inmate responds by asking what the truth is, Steve says, "The truth is truth. It's what you know to be right" (Myers 225). The other inmate then says the truth is something he gave up while he was on the street. Once you're in the system, it is all about survival. Steve learns his idea of the truth will not help him get out of the system. Steve realizes he will have to lie on the witness stand to make it out of jail. Steve must do everything in his power to avoid being found guilty. When Steve testifies, he alters his story and is found not guilty.