Paper Towns

“It was May fifth, but it didn’t have to be. My days had a pleasant identicalness about them. I had always liked that: I liked routine. I liked being bored. I didn’t want to, but I did” 

Quentin’s admission highlights the fact that, at least initially, he is perfectly fine with Margo’s assessment of him as a “paper boy.” He takes comfort in the fact that his days and life are planned. Even if it makes him boring, it still feels comforting.

“Margo was so beautiful that even her fake smiles were convincing” 

Quentin’s comment points to the fact that so many people are willing to believe in a lie if it makes them feel better. As is revealed later in the novel, Quentin has idolized Margo since childhood. He does not see her for who she is, but for who he wants her to be. He is willing to revel in a false perception of her.