What are some of Buddy's traits in "A Christmas Memory" as in his appearance, actions, private thoughts, and reactions of others?

In Truman Capote’s nostalgic short story “A Christmas Memory” the reader experiences Buddy at three distinct ages. Buddy, who narrates the story is an adult looking back twenty years with longing for a time gone by. He is a man who is demonstrating his emotions for his dear friend, his distant cousin.

For most of the story, the reader is exposed to Buddy, the seven year old boy, who is best friends with a child-like...

In Truman Capote’s nostalgic short story “A Christmas Memory” the reader experiences Buddy at three distinct ages. Buddy, who narrates the story is an adult looking back twenty years with longing for a time gone by. He is a man who is demonstrating his emotions for his dear friend, his distant cousin.

For most of the story, the reader is exposed to Buddy, the seven year old boy, who is best friends with a child-like woman in her sixties. Because of his age and her emotional status the two are able to relate to each other and become inseparable friends. Descriptions of Buddy are overshadowed by distinct descriptions of his cousin. Buddy’s traits are implied by his actions. When his cousin gets excited about something, Buddy is caught up in her emotions and proceeds to help her with any adventure that is of importance to her. Upon her request, he pushes the carriage when they pick pecans and choose a Christmas tree. He defers to her, yet when she needs comforting he is kind and attentive to her needs. He lovingly tolerates her quirks.

On Christmas, Buddy does show his dislike for the presents he receives from the other adults in his life but he is pleased with the kite his cousin makes for him even if she gives him the same present every year. This shows another side of his personality.

As the story concludes, the reader meets Buddy in the character of a school aged boy who was sent off to military school. He corresponds with his cousin on a regular basis, and expresses his dismay that although he lives elsewhere,, home is where his friend is. This shows his attribute of devotion to his cousin. He is deeply moved when he receives word of her death. From all of these things we can imply that Buddy is a person who was devoted to his friend, who has a tender heart, and who looks back at his childhood with fond memories in spite of the other adults who lived in the same house.