Tony was willing to risk seeming like a hypocrite to protect his brother from entering the drug trade and a life of crime.
Wes is still young when Tony is already a "certified gangsta." He started dealing drugs at 10 and was known in the neighborhood as a fierce person four years later. The author says he had a cold, frozen stare that was called an ice grille. He'd been involved in shootouts and controlled multiple corners in the city.
However, he doesn't want life to be like that for Wes. He wanted Wes to do well in school and stay clear of crime. He wanted life to be better for Wes. Forbidding his brother from entering the world Tony was a part of may have made him seem like a hypocrite. Tony didn't care, though. He only wanted Wes to be safe and happy.
Tony believed it was too late for himself. He was already in too deep and had drug sales operations in both East Baltimore and West Baltimore. Wes Moore writes:
Like a soldier after years of combat, Tony hated the war and wanted Wes to do whatever he could to avoid it. He was willing to risk seeming
like a hypocrite.
Ultimately, however, the other Wes Moore ends up with a life sentence after participating in criminal activity.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.