In "Long Way Down" by Jason Reynolds, Buck is revealed to have a significant relationship with both Will and Shawn. Buck is a close friend of Shawn, Will's older brother. Throughout the story, Buck serves as a mentor figure, providing guidance and support to Will, especially after Shawn's death.
As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Buck also represents the complexities of the choices surrounding violence and revenge in their community. His relationship with Will is complicated; while he cares for him and wants to protect him, he also embodies the pressures of the street as someone who has been involved in the cycle of revenge.
Ultimately, Buck’s influence on Will is profound, as he plays a role in the internal struggle Will faces regarding whether to follow through with the cycle of violence or to break it.