How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
Twelve months ago I'd opened the front door to find the police on the doorstep. We have some bad news, they said. My dad's funeral was a week later. (7.5)
A lot of times parents represent the protection, security, and stability of childhood life. When they're gone, it's a sign that those things have been taken away and that a character will have to start facing a scary world on her/his own. Moreover, it's a sign that there's room for a new central figure in a character's life, in this case, a male figure. Does that ring any bells?
Quote #5
Patch's mouth was roaming north, up over my jaw, gently sucking at my skin…
'My legs are falling asleep,' I blurted. (9.114-115)
Patch is obviously sexually experienced and comfortable exploring sexuality. Nora is uncomfortable and squeamish, as evidenced by the word "blurted." Comparing her attitude toward sex in moments like this one against the final lines of the book when she readily asks for "more" demonstrates her growth in terms of sexual maturity.
Quote #6
'We've been struggling for a year, and I'm not pulling in as much as I'd hoped. I've considered taking a second job, but honestly, I'm not sure there are enough hours in the day.' She laughed without any trace of humor. 'Dorothea's wages are modest, but it's extra money we don't have. The only thing I can think of is moving into a smaller house. Or an apartment.'
'But this is our house.' All my memories were here. The memory of my dad was here. I couldn't believe she didn't feel the same way. I would do whatever it took to stay. (14.14-15)
Nora's mom reveals the sad state of their financial affairs and tells Nora they may have to sell the house. Part of coming of age means learning about all the things that worry adults, such as money and mortgages and the cost of keeping up a house. Nora is smacked in the face with all that here.
There is some immaturity in Nora's response when she suggests her mom doesn't feel sad about the idea of leaving the house. Her mom doesn't say as much, but it's easy to imagine she doesn't want to sell her home. However, she knows that she has to take care of finances. Nora still has some growing up to do, but she gets a taste of the cold, hard reality of adult life in this passage.