A flashback is an interruption to the main narrative, and it takes readers to a previous time in order to provide background or additional context to events that are happening in the present narrative. Flashbacks can be a powerful tool in terms of characterization, and that is why Myers includes the flashback to a younger Steve hanging out with his friend Tony.
The boys are talking about baseball, and Tony claims that he can throw a rock accurately enough to hit a nearby lamppost. He throws the rock and misses. Steve teases his friend and makes his own attempt. Steve also misses, but his throw is errant enough that it hits a woman. This woman's tough guy friend comes up to the boys, and Steve tells Tony to run. This makes Tony look guilty, and the...
