People in Feathers aren't just separated by race—they are also separated by class. This is especially clear whenever Maribel, who used to attend a private school, is around. She looks down on her classmates for having less money, and she likes to tell a story about Jesus Boy coming into her mama's grocery store and paying in pennies, like this is the most outrageous thing ever. Money issues are also briefly referenced when Frannie has a social gaffe and asks Samantha's parents where the chicken is when she comes over for dinner, not realizing that they don't have enough money for a chicken. Oops.
Questions About Society and Class
- What is the economic situation like on "this" side of the highway?
- Why is Maribel so set on letting everyone know that she used to go to a private school?
- What's so embarrassing about paying for your groceries in pennies?
Chew on This
Frannie doesn't like Maribel—not because she feels threatened by her friendship with Samantha, but because Maribel treats people differently based on how much money they have.
Even though Frannie and her family don't have a lot of money, they don't dwell on what that means. Frannie always feels like her life is full of love and all the things she needs, regardless of their financial situation.