The Fault in Our Stars
John Green
Contributed by Margherita Wickersham
Chapter 11
Summary

Finally, their trip lands them in Amsterdam. They check into Hotel Filosoof. Hazel’s mom would like to visit Vondelpark despite being tired from the long flight; but Hazel prefers taking a nap. On waking up, she finds her mom watching her, as she never went to the park (Green 46). Nonetheless, she has already made a reservation for her daughter and Gus at the Oranjee restaurant. Therefore, Hazel puts on a nice sundress while Gus appears in a black suit. Together, the youngsters have a romantic date at the restaurant and Van Houten surprises them by covering their bill in full (Green 48). From the restaurant, the two wander down to the canal and sit on a bench. Here, Hazel asks about Caroline, and Gus explains fully that Caroline went through an ordeal until her death. He also talks about the love he had for her and their involvement until her death. Hazel now tells Gus how she would hate hurting him, but he says that it would be a privilege to have his heart broken by her.

Analysis

At dinner, Hazel and Gus felt free to talk about death and earthly achievements. They both feel that they have not made any important accomplishments, and their imminent death seems unfair. This realization of life and death leaves Hazel thinking about the pain she will cause the people she loves, especially to Gus if they get involved romantically. However, Gus seems not bothered by the pain, and for the first time, it becomes clear to Hazel that he is serious about them being together. In addition, she notes that Gus has a different love for her as compared to the one he had for Caroline. She believes that Gus is willing to love her unconditionally, while at the same time having the knowledge of the possible hurt by her death.

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