12. Comparing "Popular Problems" to "Free": How does the speaker’s perspective in “Free” compare to Randall’s perspective in “Popular Problems” at the end of the story?

Question

Both characters struggle with the idea of freedom.
Both characters struggle with the idea of freedom.

Randall changes his perspective, but the speaker remains consistent.
Randall changes his perspective, but the speaker remains consistent.

Randall begins to value friendship, while the speaker values solitude.
Randall begins to value friendship, while the speaker values solitude.

Both characters reject material wealth as a source of happiness.

“Just look at him!” Victor let out a whistle. Randall didn’t need to look. He knew exactly
who Victor was talking about. Starks James was the most popular kid in school and for good
reason. His father was none other than Conner James--the best player for the Houston Texans.
Not only did he have a celebrity father, but that also meant that he was very wealthy. Starks
always had the nicest clothes, shoes and technology. This also meant that Starks had all of the
girls falling at his feet. Yes, Randall was green with envy. He was not a fan of Starks. The boys
watched as Starks approached them with a confident smile.
“Hey guys, my birthday is this weekend. Would you want to come over on Friday?”
Starks looked hopeful. “We actually have other--” Randall was interrupted by Victor. “We will be
there. It sounds cool, man.” Victor had no shame. “Great. Write down your addresses and my
driver will pick you up at six o’clock.” Starks took their numbers and walked away. “Victor, are
you crazy? We hate that kid.” “Yeah, but I don’t hate his house. I’ve heard he has a movie
theatre, an indoor swimming pool and a skate park all inside of his house. We are so going!”
Victor slapped Randall on the back and left him to his thoughts.
Friday arrived and the boys were soon in Starks’ limousine. Randall wondered how
much having your own private driver would cost. His family would never be able to afford such
luxury. He couldn’t believe he was actually going. This was going to be a huge mistake. His
thoughts were interrupted when they arrived at Starks’ house. House isn’t the right word,
thought Randall. This is a mansion. Starks met the boys outside and invited them in. He gave
them a tour of his home and Randall became even angrier. Why does Starks deserve to have
everything when I have nothing? He’s so lucky. “All right guys, what do you want to do first?”
Starks rubbed his hands together, visibly excited. Despite Starks’ kindness, Randall felt nothing
but irritated. “Let’s meet your dad.” Starks face became red. “He’s actually out of town. I haven’t

seen him in a few months, but we can play football if you’d like.” “Actually, I’m feeling a bit
hungry. Can your mom cook us something?”
Randall could only imagine what rich people food tasted like. “I’m sorry, but we have to
order pizza. My mom isn’t around. She left my dad a while back.” Starks shuffled his feet and
avoided looking at Randall. “I pretty much take care of myself. It gets to be pretty lonely around
here, so I’m excited that you guys decided to come over.” At first, Randall had another smart
comment ready, but then he stopped. He hated Starks so badly because he thought that Starks
had everything he wanted. It was beginning to seem that he was wrong. “Do you want to maybe
play video games?” Starks was clearly hoping to change the subject. “Yes, where’s your
restroom? I’ll meet you in your room.” Starks looked relieved and pointed to a door down the
hall. Randall had an idea. He made a quick call when he shut the restroom door. Randall
returned and shortly after the boys began their game, the doorbell rang. Starks excused himself
to answer the door. “Victor,” Randall began to hurriedly whisper.
“I have a plan. My mom is outside right now. We’re going to have a party for Starks.” “I
thought you hated him!” “I thought I did too. Let’s go.” Just as the boys were heading toward the
door, Starks ran into them. “Hey, your mom is outside, and she wants us to come to your house.
Are we in trouble?” “I don’t know man, but we’d better listen.” Starks paled and nodded. The
boys got into the car and drove to Randall’s house. When they arrived, a cake was waiting for
Starks. “Blow out the candles! A nice guy like you deserves a proper birthday party!” Randall
smiled and patted his new friend on the back. “Thanks! I’ve never had a birthday party before.
I’ve never really had friends either.” The boys played all night long. Although Randall’s house
wasn’t nearly as nice or as fancy as Starks, Randall wasn’t too surprised when Starks said:
“Can I come over again next week? This is the best house ever.” Starks is right, Randall
thought. At last, Randall felt like the lucky one.

Answer 1

In comparing the perspectives of Randall in “Popular Problems” and the speaker in “Free,” we can observe some notable differences in their experiences with freedom and social connections.

1. Character Development: At the beginning of “Popular Problems,” Randall is envious of Starks James, who seems to have everything—wealth, popularity, and a seemingly carefree life. However, as the story progresses, Randall comes to realize that Starks is lonely and lacks meaningful relationships, which shifts his perspective. By the end, Randall finds joy in friendship, indicating growth and a new understanding of what truly matters. He embraces the idea that friendship and personal connections provide a different, more rewarding kind of freedom compared to material wealth.

2. Value of Solitude vs. Friendship: In contrast to Randall’s transformation, the speaker in “Free” maintains a consistent belief in the value of solitude. This character may argue that true freedom comes from independence and self-reliance, disconnecting from social expectations or relationships that they perceive as confining. While Randall learns to appreciate the value of friendship and genuine connection, the speaker in “Free” remains steadfast in their belief that solitude is a more authentic path to freedom.

3. Overall Reflections on Material Wealth: Both characters engage with the idea of material wealth; however, their conclusions differ. While Randall initially equates happiness with wealth (as seen in his envy of Starks), he eventually recognizes that filling his life with friendships leads to more genuine satisfaction. On the other hand, the speaker in “Free” may reject material wealth outright, associating it with constraints and pressures, viewing freedom as a state achieved through detachment from possessions and social demands.

In summary, Randall's journey reflects a transformational realization that true freedom lies in the connections we establish with others, contrasting sharply with the speaker in “Free,” who holds firm to a philosophy of solitude as the ultimate expression of freedom.