The Beltraminis’s situation is especially heart-wrenching because they are dealing with the gradual death of a loved one on top of everything else. While returning from his friend’s house, Pino witnesses a casual and brutal act of violence, which he soon learns is standard procedure for the Nazis. This makes him feel even more disgusted at the idea of joining the SS, but his mother tells him he has no choice. Even though Pino is now an adult, his mother ultimately makes his decision for him, suggesting that he still hasn’t fully matured into his own person.