Chapter Six: Scary Stories (Getting to Know You)

This is the first time that we really get to see the “Humans” and study them through Bella’s eyes. It’s the trip to La Push and the beach, and as everyone knows when you’re out of school–you’re a different person. You have more fun. You let lose a little. And that’s exactly what happens. Mike tries to flirt a little more with Bella, Jessica tries to flirt with Mike, and Bella discovers a good friend in Angela.

But then enters Jacob Black.

This is the first time that we meet Jacob.

He looked fourteen, maybe fifteen, and had long, glossy black hair pulled back with a rubber band at the nape of his neck. His skin was beautiful, silky and russet-colored; his eyes were dark, set deep above the high planes of his cheekbones. He still had just a hint of childish roundness left around his chin. Altogether, a very pretty face. However, my positive opinion of his looks was damaged by the first words out of his mouth.

I compare Jacob to Wickham. Not that Jacob is bad like Wickham in Pride and Prejudice but more so because he’s the one who gives Bella the low-down on Edward, just as Wickham tells Elizabeth the “truth” about Darcy. That also sets him up as Edward’s rival for Bella’s affections.

So, from Jacob we learn the story of what Edward really is–a vampire. Surprise! As if the back of the book didn’t already give it away. But honestly, this chapter starts the vampire myth and begins the twisting that Stephenie Meyer does. It’s fantastic–and truly key to everything that happens throughout the series. Think about it–Jacob always refers back to this first story when he’s trying to re-explain something to Bella.