Charles Vella

Profoundly Tender Charles Vella

"Profoundly Tender" is a mainstream, coming-of-age love story. The plot centers on Eddie who is turning sixteen, has not loved anyone since his parents died when he was nine and now questions his ability to love. The story is in Eddie's voice. There are people woven into his day-to-day life who develop positive meaningful relationships with Eddie who is new to the neighborhood. Nancy is a teenage girl he meets in the park and they share common thoughts and dreams. An old, retired man spending his days in the park playing chess answers Eddie's questions on love and male behavior with Jewish humor and wisdom. A schoolteacher for whom Eddie runs errands teaches and guides him in his relationship with Nancy and the loss of his parents. In contrast, Eddie's foster mother appears indifferent to him, but eventually plays a significant role in resolving Eddie's nightmares about the last day he saw his mother. These characters and others play a crucial role in Eddie learning he can love.