“First of all, let me get something straight: This is a JOURNAL, not a diary.”

Greg’s opening lines in Chapter 1 remind the reader he is not enthusiastic about writing in a diary. He points out that there is a difference between a journal and a diary, and although he doesn’t go into detail, the reader can assume Greg views diaries as too feminine, and he isn’t thrilled about the idea of writing down his feelings. Greg worries the diary will be a source of embarrassment for him, and he takes great care to point out that he doesn’t want to be bullied for doing this.

“Mom is always saying I’m a smart kid, but that I just don’t ‘apply’ myself.”

Greg is a precocious child, and he seems very observant about the world around him. Although he is intelligent, Greg is chronically lazy, and he doesn’t like to do more work than is necessary. He gets through school by putting forth minimal effort, and this theme of “doing the minimum” follows him throughout his adventures in the novel. Greg wants great recognition but wants to do very little to actually earn this recognition.

“Rowley is technically my best friend, but that is definitely subject to change.”

Greg is very worried about being popular, and when he introduces his best friend Rowley, Greg wastes no time in telling the reader Rowley is less popular than him. Greg seems to believe he is doing Rowley a big favor by hanging out with him, and Greg even admits he has no allegiance to Rowley.