How does Steve think O'Brien feels about his innocence or guilt?

Steve Harmon believes that his lawyer, Sandra O'Brien, perceives him as guilty, rather than innocent.

Steve's Perception of O'Brien's Belief

In the compelling narrative of Monster by Walter Dean Myers, Steve Harmon, a teenager on trial for his alleged involvement in a robbery-homicide, constantly grapples with how he is viewed by others, particularly those closest to his defense. His relationship with his attorney, Sandra O'Brien, is central to his psychological journey through the trial.

Steve keenly observes O'Brien's demeanor, strategies, and reactions, attempting to discern her true feelings about his guilt or innocence. Despite her professional duty to defend him vigorously, Steve's internal monologue and narrative perspective reveal his deep-seated conviction that O'Brien privately believes he is culpable. This perception significantly impacts Steve's emotional state throughout the trial proceedings.

Why Steve Might Perceive This

Steve's belief stems from several potential factors within the trial's intense environment:

• O'Brien's Professionalism: O'Brien maintains a highly professional and often detached demeanor, prioritizing legal strategy over emotional reassurance. She focuses on discrediting witnesses and presenting a logical defense, which can come across as cold or purely pragmatic to Steve.
• Trial Realities: O'Brien prepares Steve for the harsh realities of the justice system, including the possibility of conviction. This blunt preparation, while necessary, might be interpreted by Steve as O'Brien's own lack of faith in his innocence.
• Focus on Appearance: She advises Steve on how to present himself to the jury to appear less threatening or guilty, even suggesting he avoid eye contact with jurors. These instructions, while tactical, might reinforce Steve's feeling that she sees him as someone who needs to hide guilt rather than someone inherently innocent.
• Steve's Internal Conflict: Steve himself struggles with his own identity and guilt, making him highly sensitive to perceived judgments from others, especially his advocate.

Impact on Steve Harmon

Steve's perception that O'Brien believes he is guilty amplifies his isolation and fear during the trial. If even his own defense attorney, the person fighting for his freedom, holds such a belief, it deepens his despair and sense of being truly alone against the system. It also contributes to his existential crisis, as he questions his own identity and whether he truly is the "monster" the prosecution portrays him to be.

For further reading on the themes and characters of Walter Dean Myers' Monster, you can explore resources such as Goodreads.