Which lines from Natalie Merchant's song "Wonder" most likely inspired R. J. Palacio to make August's character stared at wherever he goes in the novel Wonder?

Question

Doctors have come from distant cities
just to see me
and as far as they can see they can offer
no explanation
laughed as she came to my cradle
know this child will be able
People see me
I'm a challenge to your balance

Answer 1

In R. J. Palacio's novel "Wonder," the character August Pullman faces the challenges of being stared at and judged because of his facial differences. The lines from Natalie Merchant's song "Wonder" that likely inspired this portrayal are:

"People see me
I'm a challenge to your balance."

These lines encapsulate the idea that August’s appearance draws attention, causing others to react in ways that highlight their discomfort or curiosity. This directly relates to August's experience of being observed and treated differently by those around him.