During one of Nic’s relapses, he steals $8 from his brother Jasper, who is eight years old at the time. The $8 is Jasper’s entire savings, and the money represents both Nic’s ruin and his attempt at recovery. The fact that he stoops so low as to steal $8 from his young brother in order to try to buy meth signals the desperation and the degradation of his morals. Jasper is deeply upset by what happens, and thus the $8 also illustrates the emotional toll that addiction takes on close family members.
However, about a year later, when Nic is once again in recovery, he writes a letter to Jasper explaining how he wants to be there for his brother again. Along with the letter, Nic encloses $8. This symbolic gesture demonstrates Nic’s attempts to recovery not only from his addiction, but his desire to recover his relationship and his esteem in Jasper’s eyes. Even though Nic has made mistakes, the $8 illustrates that he always has an opportunity to right his wrongs.
$8 Quotes in Beautiful Boy
I guess what I can offer you is this: As you’re growing up, whenever you need me—to talk or just whatever—I’ll be able to be there for you now. That is something that I could never promise you before. I will be here for you. I will live, and build a life, and be someone that you can depend on. I hope that means more than this stupid note and these eight dollar bills.
$8 Symbol Timeline in Beautiful Boy
