In Las Vegas, Theo meets a boy with whom they share circumstances. Just like Theo, Boris had abusing and non-caring parents. The companionship with Boris makes Theo forget his earlier ambitions, including his mother’s previous expectations that he would attend school. He indulges in heavy drinking and begins to think that there is no way he can change his fate/destiny. Theo’s idea of abandoning his ambitions could also have been motivated by his discovery that his trust fund had substantial money. The mention of this fund is also important because it brings out the sharp contrast between the two parents’ plans for their child. On one hand, Theo’s mother is caring and loving, which explains why she set aside a fund for her son’s future use. On the other hand, Theo’s father is selfish because he wants to take away the money that is meant for his kid’s future.

The Goldfinch continues to be Theo’s source of comfort and concern in Chapter Six. However, rather than loving the painting because of its monetary and cultural values, Theo believes that the painting is significant because it reminds him of his mother’s death. The fact that the bird is chained is symbolic of Theo’s circumstances. So long as the bird is chained and that he owns the painting, Theo would not break away from chaos and confusion that has become characteristic of his life since his mother’s death. However, The Goldfinch also gives Theo a sense of security, comfort, and purpose in life. His priority is to protect it; not to enjoy it.