How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Mother was seeing me off at Dearborn Station in Chicago. We'd come in a taxicab because of my trunk. But Mother would ride back home on the El. There wasn't much more than a nickel in her purse, and only a sandwich for the train in mine. My ticket had pretty well cleaned us out. (P.1)
Sending Mary Alice off to her grandmother's house costs money—and her parents can barely afford the ticket, let alone money for a drink or lunch. Even taking the taxicab there is a huge extravagance.
Quote #2
The recession of thirty-seven had hit Grandma's town harder than it had hit Chicago. Grass grew in the main street. Only a face or two showed in the window of The Coffee Pot Cafe. Moore's Store was hurting for trade. Weidenbach's bank looked to be just barely in business. (1.14)
There are already few shops and stores left in the tiny downtown area, and those that remain are hurting for business. It looks like small town life at Grandma Dowdel's is going to be pretty depressing with this whole recession going on.
Quote #3
They'd fired the janitor when times got hard. August—Mr. Fluke—was the principal, which made him the coach too. And he taught shop to the boys. And swept up. (1.38)
Everyone is spread thin financially, which is why Mr. Fluke—the school principal—has taken on all sorts of odd jobs. He has to clean up the school, teach shop, and coach the basketball team. What do you suppose the former janitor is doing for work now?