How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from Kramer vs. Kramer.
Quote #10
TED: Well, the problem is that your mommy and I both want you to live with us, see? So that's why we decided to go see this man who, I told you, is the judge, and we let him decide because he's very wise and experienced about these things. See, we talked to him for a few days, and after that, we asked him what he thought. Know what he said? He agreed with Mommy, and he thought it'd be a terrific idea if you move in with her and live there from now on. And I'm really lucky because I get to have dinner with you once a week. And two times a month, we spend the weekends together.
After the court's ruling, the structure of the Kramer family, and everybody's roles within it, are set to change once again. We don't know about you, but we think that's a lot to ask from a little kid.
Quote #11
JOANNA: I woke up this morning. I kept thinking about Billy, and I was thinking about him waking up in his room with his little clouds over him that I painted, and I thought I should've painted clouds downtown because…
She trails off, sniffling.
JOANNA: And then he would think that he was waking up at home.
She sighs.
JOANNA: I came here to take my son home, and I realize he already is home.
The court may've sided with Joanna, but ultimately Joanna sides with Ted. Or, really, she sides with Billy, in that she recognizes that what's best for her kid is to stay with his dad. They've formed a tight two-man family in her absence. We can see that Joanna's therapy has given her some self-confidence; her self-worth won't be threatened by not being the primary caregiver.