They Both Die at the End
Death-Cast Calling: A Dissection of They Both Die at the End
Introduction
Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End is a powerful story that explores the themes of love, loss, and the importance of living life fully. Published in 2017, the novel takes place in a world where a service called Death-Cast informs individuals of their final day of life. The book’s unique premise and emotional depth have captivated readers, making it a significant work in the young adult genre. This article will examine the novel in detail, focusing on its characters, plot, and structure, with numerous examples to provide a comprehensive understanding of its impact.
Warning: This article has many spoilers and is intended to be read after completing the novel.
1. Characters: Backstory and Wishes
The strength of They Both Die at the End lies in its characters. Each figure is crafted with a unique backstory that shapes their personality and actions, making them feel relatable and authentic. They all have flaws and strong opinions that resonate with the reader.
Mateo Torrez: Cautious Protector or Fearful Prisoner?
Mateo’s cautiousness initially seems like an act of self-preservation, it ultimately becomes clear that Mateo’s fear of the unknown traps him in a life devoid of meaningful risks and experiences. Before meeting Rufus, Mateo is not living life to the fullest; he is merely surviving, confined by his own need for safety and control.
From the start, Mateo’s life is shaped by profound loss. His mother’s death during childbirth and his father’s coma leaves him with a sense of loneliness and a fear of connection. He avoids forming deep relationships out of fear that he will lose the people he loves. This self-imposed isolation is exemplified by his hesitancy to step outside his apartment, even after receiving the life-altering Death-Cast call. His thought, "The outside world has never been my friend, and I’m not in the mood to make amends," represents how deeply he views the world as hostile and unwelcoming.
This fear of the outside world extends into Mateo’s interactions and choices. He limits himself to predictable routines, avoiding risks and opportunities for joy. Despite his nurturing and compassionate nature, which is evident in his care for his father that suffers in a coma. Additionally, his presence in his friend Lidia and her daughter Penny’s lives prevent him from fully engaging in his own life. For example, his reluctance to sing in public, try new experiences, or even leave the safety of his home demonstrates how his fears imprison him.
Everything changes when Mateo meets Rufus. Rufus becomes the catalyst for Mateo’s transformation, showing him the beauty of embracing the present moment. Rufus pushes Mateo out of his comfort zone, encouraging him to live boldly despite the certainty of death. This newfound courage is reflected in Mateo’s decision to ride a bike for the first time, dance in public, and sing karaoke. Each of these moments represents a break from the chains of fear that have bound him.
The most striking example of Mateo’s growth is when he jumps into the Hudson River, a literal and symbolic leap into the unknown. This act, unthinkable for the old Mateo, symbolizes his willingness to confront his fears and experience life fully, even if only for a single day. Through these experiences, Mateo transforms from a prisoner of his own fears into someone who embraces life with open arms.
Ultimately, Mateo’s journey reveals that his cautious nature was less about protecting himself and more about avoiding the pain and unpredictability of life. It is through his relationship with Rufus that he learns to face his fears and appreciate the fleeting beauty of existence. In the end, Mateo’s story is a poignant reminder that living in fear is not truly living, and that life’s greatest joys often lie beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones.
Is Mateo a cautious protector or fearful prisoner? Fearful prisoner.
Rufus Emeterio: Reckless Survivor or Wounded Child?
Rufus’ boldness, brashness, and seemingly fearless demeanor are not just traits of survival, they are a mask to cope with the pain and vulnerability he has carried since losing his family. Until he met Mateo, Rufus’ life was defined by a dangerous balancing act: living recklessly as a way to assert control over a world that had taken so much from him.
Rufus' life after the death of his parents and sister was steeped in instability. Growing up in the foster system taught him that survival often meant projecting toughness and independence. His loyalty to his chosen family, the Plutos or two friends Tagoe and Malcolm, reflects this survival mechanism. By protecting his friends and building a community, Rufus created a world where he could feel a semblance of safety and belonging, but this protection often came at the cost of his own well-being. For example, his fight with Peck, an act born out of his fierce need to defend his friends, leads to his Death-Cast notification. This moment exemplifies how Rufus' "recklessness" is a direct result of his fear of losing the people he loves again.
Beneath Rufus’ bold exterior is a young man deeply haunted by guilt and fear. His confession to Mateo about feeling responsible for his family’s fatal car accident, saying, "It’s all my fault they were in the car that day," reveals how profoundly he is imprisoned by his unresolved grief. This guilt drives Rufus to live on the edge, as if punishing himself for surviving while his family did not. His dangerous choices, getting into fights, defying authority, and pushing boundaries, are not acts of rebellion for rebellion’s sake; they are desperate attempts to escape the pain and fear that have consumed him since that tragic day.
It is only when Rufus meets Mateo that he begins to recognize the ways in which he has been living not boldly, but recklessly, as a reaction to his pain. Mateo’s cautious, introspective nature acts as a foil to Rufus’ brashness, forcing Rufus to confront his fears and reframe his understanding of what it means to truly live. With Mateo, Rufus experiences moments of tenderness and vulnerability that break through his hardened exterior. Lying under the stars with Mateo or discussing his guilt about his family’s death, Rufus allows himself to feel and express emotions he has long buried. These moments reveal a different kind of strength: the courage to face his fears, not run from them.
Through Mateo, Rufus learns that living fully does not have to mean living recklessly. By the end of their journey, Rufus’ choices reflect not just survival or rebellion, but an intentional embrace of life’s beauty, fragility, and connection. Mateo teaches him that strength lies not in masking his pain with danger but in confronting it with openness and love.
In this sense, Rufus’ recklessness can be seen as the symptom of a deeper fear, fear of vulnerability, of loss, and of the fragility of life itself. Meeting Mateo helps Rufus move beyond this fear, transforming him from a prisoner of his pain into someone who can embrace the freedom of living fully, even in his final hours.
Is Rufus a reckless survivor or wounded child? A wounded child.
The Plutos (Tagoe and Malcolm): Chosen Family or Unwavering Enablers?
The Plutos, Rufus’ close-knit group of friends comprising Tagoe and Malcolm, embody the concept of chosen family, but they also exhibit characteristics of unwavering enablers in specific moments. Their loyalty to Rufus and willingness to stand by him even in dangerous situations highlight the complexities of their bond.
Tagoe and Malcolm have built a familial bond with Rufus through shared experiences of loss and resilience. All three have endured significant hardships, Rufus losing his biological family, and Tagoe and Malcolm navigating their struggles within the foster care system. These challenges have created an unbreakable trust and support system between them, exemplifying the theme of found family.
Their unwavering loyalty, particularly on Rufus’ End Day, showcases the depth of their connection. For example, when Rufus confronts his ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend Peck, potentially putting himself and the Plutos in danger, they don’t abandon him. Instead, they stand by his side, not out of thoughtless enabling but out of understanding Rufus’ need to confront his past and assert control over his final moments. This support reflects their shared understanding of the importance of living authentically and the value of emotional solidarity, even in perilous circumstances.
Tagoe’s introspection and Malcolm’s outspoken protectiveness further underscore their role as chosen family. Tagoe, with his subtle humor and calming presence, often tries to de-escalate tense situations, acting as the group’s voice of reason. Malcolm, on the other hand, is the emotional backbone, fiercely protective and willing to defend Rufus no matter the cost. These complementary dynamics show that their bond isn’t built on blind support but on genuine care and mutual respect.
While the Plutos’ loyalty is commendable, there are moments when their support for Rufus could be interpreted as enabling potentially reckless behavior. For instance, their willingness to participate in situations that put them in harm’s way, like assisting Rufus in his violent fight with Peck, might seem like an act of blind allegiance. However, these actions are not driven by a lack of judgment but by an understanding of the stakes involved. They recognize that Rufus’ time is limited and that his final moments should be lived without regret, even if it means taking risks. Their so-called “recklessness” arises not from a willingness to blindly follow Rufus into dangerous situations but from a shared understanding of the necessity of fully living in the face of mortality. Their loyalty reflects a deep love and respect for Rufus as a person, not an uncritical acceptance of his choices.
The Plutos exemplify what it means to create family in the absence of traditional support systems. Their willingness to stand by Rufus, even at personal risk, is driven by a desire to make his End Day meaningful and to ensure that he feels supported and loved. They are not enabling recklessness; they are enabling life, however fleeting it may be.
While the Plutos display moments of enabling behavior, these actions are rooted in the necessity of living authentically and fully, rather than blind allegiance. In a world where traditional families are often absent or broken, the Plutos serve as a testament to the strength and importance of chosen bonds in navigating life’s challenges. Their actions, while occasionally risky, ultimately reflect love, solidarity, and the belief that life, no matter how short, should be lived without regret.
Were the Plutos a chosen family or unwavering enablers?
Aimee Dubois: Lingering Love or Emotional Catalyst?
Aimee is primarily an emotional catalyst in They Both Die at the End. While her lingering affection for Rufus adds emotional complexity to their interactions, her role in the story is more about sparking reflection and growth in Rufus, rather than just being a reminder of past love.
Their breakup serves as a key moment in Rufus' emotional development and shapes his attitudes toward relationships. Aimee started dating Peck after their breakup, and this decision deeply hurt Rufus. He felt betrayed by her choice, as he believed that they had a special connection that could not be replaced by someone else. This breakup marks a significant emotional wound for Rufus, revealing his vulnerability. His inability to fully let go of Aimee shows the complexity of his emotions. He still holds onto a lingering affection for her, even though he’s angry and hurt by her actions.
Aimee’s return into Rufus’ life during his End Day acts as an emotional catalyst. Despite her complicated relationship with both Rufus and Peck, she chooses to reach out to Rufus in his final hours. This act forces Rufus to confront unresolved feelings, including his anger, his love for Aimee, and his capacity for forgiveness. As they spend time together, Aimee provides Rufus with moments of tenderness, revealing that her care for him never truly disappeared, even though she moved on with Peck.
Her role as an emotional catalyst is pivotal because she helps Rufus open up and express vulnerability. Through their interactions, he begins to reconcile with his past and accept the imperfections in his relationships. His emotional growth culminates in him forgiving Aimee and acknowledging the nuanced reality of their breakup. Not as a betrayal but as part of the messy, complex nature of love.
Was Aimee a character representing lingering love or an emotional catalyst? Emotional catalyst.
Lidia Vargas: Steadfast Anchor or Reflection of Grief?
Mateo’s friend Lidia suffers from immense grief over the death of her boyfriend, Christian, that deeply shapes her life and her ability to raise her daughter, Penny. Christian’s death, which occurred before Penny was born, creates a void in Lidia’s heart that she continues to navigate. She often carries the weight of this loss with her, shaping how she interacts with others, especially Mateo. While she is a constant source of support and encouragement for Mateo, urging him to take small steps outside his comfort zone, it is also clear that her own grief continues to influence her. Lidia’s ability to maintain her strength for Penny, despite her personal heartbreak, is both a testament to her resilience and a reminder that grief is a pervasive part of her identity.
Lidia’s grief can also be seen in the ways she holds onto the memory of Christian, even as she tries to move forward with her life. Her role as a mother and her sense of responsibility to Penny reflect her commitment to healing, but the presence of grief in her life is inescapable. This constant tension between hope and sorrow is reflected in Lidia’s relationship with Mateo, as she offers him the guidance and stability he needs, while simultaneously carrying the weight of her own unresolved grief.
Thus, Lidia’s journey is about learning to live with grief, not necessarily to move past it entirely. She doesn’t fully "move on" from her loss, but rather learns to balance her pain with the love and responsibilities she has for her daughter and her friends. In this way, she serves as a reflection of grief, acknowledging that it shapes her, even as she strives to live meaningfully in the face of it.
Does Lidia represent a steadfast anchor or reflection of grief? A reflection of grief.
2. Plot: Storyline and Detail
The plot of They Both Die at the End is both emotionally gripping and intricately detailed, unfolding over a single day. Its tight timeframe creates a sense of urgency and intimacy, drawing readers into the characters’ journey.
Exposition
The story begins with Mateo and Rufus receiving their Death-Cast notifications. Mateo’s initial reaction is fear and denial; he chooses to stay home, thinking it will keep him safe. Rufus, on the other hand, is in the middle of a physical altercation with Peck when he gets his call. Their contrasting responses immediately set up their differing personalities and approaches to life. Mateo’s hesitation is encapsulated in his line, “It’s safer here,” while Rufus’ chaotic confrontation reflects his impulsive and bold nature.
Connection Through the Last Friend App
The Last Friend app serves as the channel for Mateo and Rufus’ meeting. Mateo’s cautious profile contrasts with Rufus’ directness, creating an instant dynamic between the two. Rufus’ message, “You wanna live a little on your last day?” pulls Mateo out of his self-imposed loneliness. Their decision to spend their final day together sparks a series of adventures that push both characters to grow and confront their fears.
The interactions assisted by the app also highlight the broader societal effects of Death-Cast. For instance, Rufus reflects on how some users misuse the app for scams or predatory purposes, a dark commentary on human behavior. Other users, like a woman who shares her story of reconciling with her separated sister, showcase the app’s potential for connection and redemption, adding depth to the novel’s exploration of mortality.
Adventures and Growth
Throughout the day, Mateo and Rufus engage in activities that symbolize their personal growth. Mateo’s decision to sing karaoke, an act of public vulnerability, marks a significant turning point. His rendition of “American Pie” becomes an anthem of his transition from a life of fear to one of courage. Rufus, on the other hand, revisits his past wounds by sharing stories about his dead family and grappling with his survivor’s guilt, saying, “It’s my fault they were in the car that day.”
One of the most poignant moments is their visit to Mateo’s father in the hospital. Mateo’s tearful goodbye highlights his longing for closure, while Rufus’ silent support underscores the bond they’ve developed. Their journey to Coney Island, where they ride bikes and jump into the Hudson River, symbolizes their shared commitment to living fully despite their looming deaths.
The inclusion of characters like Lidia and the Plutos enriches the plot. Lidia’s presence allows Mateo to reflect on the impact of his absence on those he loves, particularly Penny. Rufus’ reconnection with Aimee, despite the tension caused by her relationship with Peck, reveals his capacity for forgiveness and growth.
Climax and Resolution
The climax of the novel comes when Mateo and Rufus confess their feelings for each other. Their kiss is a culmination of their emotional journey, representing their acceptance of love and vulnerability. This intimate moment contrasts with the inevitable reality of their fates, amplifying the emotional impact. Mateo reflects, “Even if it’s just for today, I’ve loved and been loved.”
The resolution is both tragic and thought-provoking. Mateo’s accidental death while preparing tea leaves Rufus devastated, and his raw grief is captured in the line, “He’s gone, and it’s the cruelest thing I’ve ever known.” Rufus’ decision to honor Mateo’s memory by continuing to live courageously, if only for the remaining hours of his life, reinforces the novel’s central message about the importance of embracing life despite its temporariness.
3. Structure of Text: Flow and Themes
Silvera’s narrative structure is interesting in terms of pacing and thematic exploration, blending multiple perspectives and stylistic elements to create a rich and immersive experience.
The Single-Day Timeframe
The novel’s choice to confine its events to a single day amplifies its emotional intensity. By compressing the timeline, Silvera creates a sense of urgency that mirrors the characters’ desperation to make the most of their limited time. This structure also allows readers to experience the fleeting beauty of each moment alongside Mateo and Rufus. For example, the pacing of their adventures, from quiet moments of reflection to spontaneous acts of rebellion, emphasizes the preciousness of time.
Dual Narration and Multiple Perspectives
The story alternates between Mateo’s and Rufus’ perspectives, offering insight into their inner thoughts and emotions. Mateo’s chapters often feature introspective musings, such as his realization that “Living is the rarest thing,” while Rufus’ chapters are more action-driven, reflecting his impulsive nature. This contrast not only enriches their individual character arcs but also highlights how different personalities can approach life and death.
Silvera also combines the narrative with vignettes from minor characters, such as the Death-Cast employee who reflects on her role in delivering life-altering news. These brief glimpses provide a mosaic of experiences, showing how Death-Cast impacts society on a broader scale. For instance, a man who avoids his Death-Cast callout demonstrates denial as a coping mechanism, while another character’s decision to forgive an old enemy underscores the theme of reconciliation.
Themes of Mortality and Legacy
The novel’s recurring theme of mortality is explored through its title, which acts as both a spoiler and a philosophical question. By confronting the inevitability of death, Silvera challenges readers to consider what it means to truly live. Mateo and Rufus’ contrasting journeys toward this realization, Mateo learning to take risks and Rufus finding peace in vulnerability, serve as balancing arcs that underline the novel’s central message.
Legacy is another prominent theme. Mateo’s careful planning for his father’s future and Rufus’ efforts to protect the Plutos demonstrate their desire to leave behind something meaningful. The novel suggests that even small acts, like comforting a friend or embracing love, can have lasting significance.
Symbolism and Motifs
Silvera uses symbolism to reinforce key themes. The recurring image of stars, for instance, represents hope and eternity. When Mateo and Rufus lie together imagining the stars, it symbolizes their acceptance of the infinite unknown. Similarly, the act of jumping into the Hudson River serves as a special moment for Mateo, washing away his fears and signaling his rebirth into a life of courage.
The motif of time is scattered throughout the novel, from the ticking clock on their lives to the significance of living in the present. Rufus’ line, “We can’t fight death, but we can choose how to meet it,” summarizes this theme, urging readers to focus on the quality rather than the quantity of time.
Conclusion
They Both Die at the End is a deeply moving exploration of life’s fragility and the power of human connection. Through its well-developed characters, emotional plot, and particular structure of narrative, Adam Silvera crafted a story that resonates with readers on a personal level. The novel reminds everyone to cherish the time we, as people, have and to live, even in the face of uncertainty. It is a testament to the enduring impact of love and friendship, leaving readers with both tears and a renewed appreciation for life.
An article published by Kate McDonald
Special thanks to Adam Silvera, author of They Both Die at the End.
Author’ Note
They Both Die at the End is a book that I read when I was too young to appreciate. Back as a pre-teen, I struggled to finish for its slow pacing. When looking back at the narrative, there are so many elements I am realizing I missed and regret not valuing. Overall, I would be open to reading more of Adam Silvera’s work. Though I would not recommend to anyone who struggles with slow paced books. This novel was less action packed which caused me to have large reading slump.
