There are many examples found within the literature that illustrate the character of Mooch. Overall, Mooch is a complex individual. He seems happy and joyful most of the time, but it is noticeable that he has an underlying layer of depression and vulnerability. Mooch uses humor as a defense mechanism against his everlasting pain and trauma. This is mentioned when Mooch and Floyd were talking about the past, when Mooch said that he laughs because if he doesn’t, he “might just fall apart”. This indicates that Mooch’s jokes aren’t for fun but instead are for survival. He masks his suffering with laughter, using it as a shield against the overwhelming weight of his past trauma. Although Mooch tries to cover his pain with humor, it still sometimes comes through with no humor. Behind the smiles and laughter, Mooch feels hopeless and alone. Mooch is used to the feeling of rejection and abandonment that he says he “ain’t gonna beg nobody to care about [him]”. Instead of admitting his need and want for connection, he gets defensive. This characteristic was shaped by the neglect and trauma that he has experienced. Despite all that Mooch is going through, Mooch is resilient. When June was worried about Mooch jumping off the bridge, he said that “[he walks] across this bridge everyday”. No matter how bad things get for Mooch, this shows that he will keep pushing through. He acknowledges that the past will always be with him, but he continues to move forward. Because of these statements, Mooch is a tragic but relatable character. Although he uses humor to hide his lasting pain and depression, he can be honest at times which shows his true emotions making him a deep and layered individual.