How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #1
His grandfather was the oldest of eight boys and the only one to live past the age of twenty-five. They were drowned, shot, kicked by horses. They perished in fires. They seemed to fear only dying in bed. (25)
What does this passage say about men in the Grady family? Does it suggest any ideas about manhood in general?
Quote #2
She held out her hand. At first he didn't know what she was doing.
I dont wish you anything but the best, she said.
He took her hand, small in his, familiar. He'd never shaken hands with a woman before. Take care of yourself, she said.
Thank you. I will. (405-8)
Why is John so taken aback by his ex-girlfriend offering him her hand? Is he just afraid of cooties? Why might the way she's treating him here be odd to him?
Quote #3
There was no back to the bench and Blevins flailed wildly for a moment and then crashed to the floor behind him…the two girls stood instantly and clapped with delight […]. The woman had leaned forward to right a cup, to quiet the children. She could not laugh for the impropriety of it but the brightness in her eyes did not escape even Blevins. (821-2)
How would you describe the woman's mannerisms in this passage—why the restraint, and why the difference between the girls and the older woman? What might McCarthy be trying to say about gender roles in Mexico here?