Milkman's Maturation

Reading chapters 10 though 12, I couldn't help but admire Milkman's independance and dedication to his mission. Of course, what mission this is is quite ambiguous-- is he looking for gold to share with his dad and Guitar, or is he following some calling to find out about his family's past (we know how much of a role the past plays in this book)-- but this post is not about the mission itself, it is about how Milkman acts while he is on his own (something he has never really desired until lately). While most of his time is spent being much more serious than usual, I was pleased to notice several instances where the old, fun-loving Milkman shows through. In particular, I enjoyed the end of chapters 10 and 12, when he is getting excited about a realization that shows him the next step he must take in his quest. I find myself leaning forward in my chair, my heart racing, beaming as I share Milkman's enthusiasm. It's kind of like a detective novel, actually, since we have the same information that Milkman has, and can try to figure things out along with him.
Another thing that impressed me with Milkman is his intelligence. I always assumed he was smart, but never really saw it explicitly in the book until he logically figures out holes in people's stories. And he is finally beginning to develop some common sense, too. While this part of him is not yet complete (fight with Saul), it is definitely improving, and we see that he can learn from past mistakes (he gets along with the people of Shalimar after Saul leaves).
He is also more skilled socially than the old Milkman was. When Guitar confronts him about "stealing" the Gold from "them," Milkman attempts to maintain a calm composure, despite wanting to shout, as the old Milkman would have done. While his story does not convince Guitar, I think it is more successful than yelling would have been. At least they are on decent terms again, all as a result of talking things out.
It is undeniable that Mlkman has changed a lot in the past few chapters. I think that overall, he has definitely improved-- he now takes responsability for his own actions and takes his fate into his own hands. He cannot necessarily be blamed for having been too carefree-- he never new anything other than being spoiled-- but we can give him credit for trying to change after realizing how immature and undeserving he had been. I am glad, though, that he hangs on to his ability to laugh and have fun, since I enjoy reading about him being happy.