Rites of Passage in Maestro

This is a ‘rites of passage’ novel. How does Goldsworthy explore ideas about the change from child to adult?

Sexual Experiences
Paul’s love for playing the romantics is echoed by the development of his sensual side. Paul’s first wet dream, obsession with Megan, fantasy scene in the library and love-making with Rosie eventuat as a result of both his physical and emotional development. A sexual urge that bever was present int he child Paul, is now takling over the adolescent Paul. The scene in which Paul talks to Keller and is distracted by Rosie outside, (and eventually gives in to her) is obvious of this.
“I glanced at her, and found a miracle had occurred before my eyes” (Paul-pg 70). Suddenly, Paul sees Rosie as a potential sexual partner, no longer as just a friend.

The Band-‘Rough Stuff’
Paul established himself as a member of the rebellious rock band, ‘Rough Stuff’ with the school bullies. Their need for his help feeds his own ego and he feels accepted by the school community. This rebellious action was aimed at asserting his own masculinity, confidence building as the number of groupies rises. Paul is aware of the lack of longevity of the band but believes it to be something he must get out of his system.

Fight with bullies
Paul’s first fight is welcomed by his own father who sees the experience as a rite of passafe uito manhood. He believes Paul’s masculinity to be strengthening and describes the experience to be stereotypical of a boy becoming a man.
“A few fights won’t do him any harm...you stand up for your rights” (John Crabbe-pg 74)

Finishing school
Symbolized by the bonfire party, Paul’s school years have come to an end. He has had to make a serious decision about his pathways.
“High school was finishing; the educational resources of Darwin could take me no further.” (Paul pg 112) Should he follow Rosie, music or something more sustainable?

Finding out the truth about the world
As a child, Paul is excited by his dreams but as he enters into adolescence, he begins to discover the truth about the world he lives in. His dreams are put into perspective. His discovery of Keller’s past and education through Keller’s ‘textbooks’, parallel his development as an adult in the world.
“If only at your age I’d had such textbooks” (Keller pg 67). During his youth however, Paul still believes, “I had better things to do” (Paul pg 67). This is a sign of immaturity however his gathering of information on Keller in his later years in Vienna, suggests a development in his maturity.