How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I can't say I blamed Big Ma for feeling the way she did. I certainly didn't forgive Cecile. (1.14)
Cecile abandoned the girls when they were little, and for what reason? Because she couldn't name Fern. Or perhaps to be part of a movement in California. Or maybe it's to write her precious poetry. To Delphine, it doesn't really matter the reason—there isn't one good enough in her mind to ditch your kids.
Quote #2
Mommy gets up to give you a glass of water in the middle of the night. Mom invited your friends inside when it's raining. Mama burns your ears with a hot comb to make your hair look pretty for class picture day. Ma is sore and worn out from wringing your wet clothes and hanging them to dry; Ma needs peace and quiet at the end of the day. We don't have one of those We have a statement of fact. (3.6)
When the girls are debating what to call Cecile, Delphine explains that they should use her name or "mother" when explaining who she is to people. In Delphine's mind, Cecile is her mother since she gave birth to her, but she's not anything more cuddly and nurturing than that.
Quote #3
Was she ashamed she had three girls she'd left behind and had to explain? Who are these girls? Yours? Why don't they live with you? Don't ask no pity from us. We were asked the same questions in Brooklyn. (3.51)
Things go from bad to worse when the girls actually reunite with their mom. Delphine doesn't expect Cecile to bust out the welcome wagon or smother them with hugs and kisses, but she thinks she deserves to be acknowledged and treated fairly at the minimum. Instead it's almost like their mom is embarrassed to even be seen with them.