Contradictions:
* Inner desires vs. outward behavior: Victor is deeply infatuated with Teresa, but he acts awkwardly and shyly around her, trying to impress her with exaggerated displays of masculinity. He practices kissing his hand and even pretends to know French, showcasing a gap between his true feelings and his attempts to appear cool.
* Yearning for acceptance vs. fear of rejection: Victor desperately wants to be accepted by his peers, but his anxieties about fitting in often lead him to act in ways that alienate him. He avoids Teresa for fear of embarrassment, and he is afraid to be seen as "uncool" for studying or being interested in academics.
* Self-perceived weakness vs. inner strength: Victor sees himself as awkward and inadequate, but he also demonstrates courage and resilience in his attempts to overcome his insecurities. His determination to learn French and his willingness to stand up for himself against Michael demonstrate an underlying strength.
Contrasts:
* Victor's internal thoughts vs. his outward actions: The story highlights the difference between Victor's private hopes and dreams and his public facade. He longs for Teresa's attention but hides his feelings behind a mask of bravado.
* Victor's naivete vs. his growing maturity: While Victor is still a young boy struggling with social pressures and romantic anxieties, he shows signs of growing maturity throughout the story. He learns to navigate his feelings and make choices that are ultimately more authentic to his true self.
* The innocence of childhood vs. the harsh realities of adolescence: The story contrasts the innocence of Victor's early crush with the complexities of navigating social dynamics and self-identity in adolescence. He experiences both the excitement and the anxieties that come with entering this new stage of life.
Overall, "Seventh Grade" presents a compelling contrast between Victor's inner world and his outward persona. It reveals the contradictions inherent in adolescence as a time of both self-discovery and social pressures, showcasing the challenges of balancing one's true self with the expectations of others.