Chapter 6 introduces Alfred, and the reader, to the world of Donatelli’s Gym. Despite the apparent disorder, the gym runs by a strict system of honesty and effort. Within the confines of the gym, Donatelli and Bud Martin set and enforce the code. It is a way of life that a young person like Alfred might apply very effectively to the outside world. Individuals are responsible for their own behavior. They must earn everything they get. It is, consequently, a meritocracy. Individuals will receive only what they merit or deserve.
Lipsyte uses the character Red as a literary device to illustrate the code by opposing it. Red wants to be treated like his idea of a champion, but he has done nothing to earn it. When Red demands that someone tape his hands, Bud Martin tells him to learn to do it himself. When Red tries to get Henry to fetch a headgear for him so that he can spar, Bud Martin rescinds the order and reminds Red that he can spar only if Mr. Donatelli or Bud can monitor the activity. Donatelli is gone, and Bud is busy. Bud tells Red that he needs to learn to follow the rules. Red challenges Bud just as he challenges the system. He even tries to punch the old man in the mouth, but the wily Bud knows how to defend himself. He knocks Red’s punch aside and raps the misfit in the jaw with his own stinging blow. Red is kicked out, but Bud reminds everyone that no one needs to mention the incident to Mr. Donatelli, because another part of the code is that everyone gets a second chance.
Several minor characters contribute to the atmosphere, some of whom appear later in the novel. Denny is a skinny white boy who is friendly to Alfred and teaches him to do sit-ups in the manner that was acceptable at the time. Two Puerto Rican boxers impress Alfred with their quickness and skill. Jelly Belly is the enormous black man who inadvertently sprays Alfred with sweat and is a supporter of the system.
Initially, Alfred feels alone and like an outsider when he enters the gym, but he goes ahead anyway. When he is alone on the mat doing sit-ups and pushups, he doesn’t want Henry to walk away. But Alfred overcomes that feeling of loneliness again. Bud Martin has a final surprise for Alfred. Donatelli has left a ticket with Henry so that Alfred can attend the evening match at the Garden. Alfred’s will to overcome his fears is paying off.
By the end of the chapter, Alfred and the reader have a pretty good idea of the world in which the protagonist will try to become a man. We already suspect that manhood has more to do with character than with physical toughness.
