Amsterdam
Augustus’ Illness
Hazel & Augustus
Meanings & Metaphors
Big Questions
100

Where does the scene begin?

In a café in Vondelpark, near the Dutch Film Museum

100

What does Hazel learn about Augustus’ health?

That his cancer has returned and spread throughout his body.

100

What does Hazel’s mom do before leaving?

She gives them time to talk and tells Hazel, “I love love love you.”

100

What does Augustus observe in the café?

The shadows of the tree branches on the ground.

100

What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

A theory that certain needs must be met before people can focus on others.

200

Why does the waiter call the latte “false coffee”?

Because it has more milk than coffee.

200

When did Augustus realize something was wrong?

Just before Hazel had to go to the hospital, he started feeling pain in his hip.

200

Why don’t they tell Hazel’s mom about the kiss?

It would have been embarrassing.

200

What metaphor does he use for the shadows?

They represent things coming together and falling apart.

200

Which level of the hierarchy applies to Hazel?

The second level (safety)

300

How does Hazel describe Amsterdam?

As a city made for movement and activity.

300

What does “I lit up like a Christmas tree” mean?

His body showed tumors all over in the PET scan.

300

Why does Hazel apologize to Augustus?

Because she thinks it’s unfair that he has cancer again.

300

How do they tell the story of meeting Van Houten?

They make it funny.

300

Why does Hazel think the theory is wrong?

Because illness doesn’t stop people from wanting art and philosophy.

400

Why does Hazel feel excluded in Amsterdam?

Because she isn’t as mobile as other people due to her illness

400

Why does Augustus apologize to Hazel?

Because he didn’t tell her about his relapse

400

Why does Hazel believe Augustus loves her?

Because he was sick himself and still capable of loving her.

400

Why does Hazel realize she can’t protect others from pain?

Because she loves Augustus and now understands that pain is unavoidable.

400

What does “You have a choice in how to tell sad stories” mean?

That people can decide whether to tell a sad story in a humorous way.

500

Why is movement so important in Amsterdam?

The city is designed for people to move around by foot, bike, or boat.

500

How does Augustus try not to cry in front of Hazel?

He clenches his teeth, looks up, and tries to hold back his tears.

500

What does Augustus mean by “I’m on a roller coaster that only goes up”?

He tries to stay optimistic despite his worsening condition.

500

What does Hazel’s final realization about Augustus mean?

She can’t stop loving him, no matter what happens.

500

What does Hazel mean by “It’s my privilege and my responsibility to ride with you”?

She will stay with Augustus until the end.