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.
