How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Whatever my family background was, I would overcome all difficulties. My future would be bright. (12.45)
Ji-li is so resilient. At first she's bummed that her dreams are being popped like soap bubbles, but then she decides she's going to make new plans and new dreams. We get to see her can-do attitude and tough approach first hand when she confides in us that she still wants a positive future.
Quote #8
"We urgently hope," the letter concluded, "that the Municipal Party Committee will investigate this situation and correct it before it is too late." The letter was signed, "The Revolutionary Masses." (16.9)
The incriminating letter begs the Communist Party to change their ways. Check out that phrase "urgently hope"—sometimes hope can feel pretty life-or-death.
Quote #9
Once my life had been defined by my goals: to be a da-dui-zhang, to participate in the exhibition, to be a Red Guard. They seemed unimportant to me now. Now my life was defined by my responsibilities. (17.17)
Over the course of the book, Ji-li grows up a lot. She changes from defining herself through her life goals and ability to achieve them into someone who knows the big role she plays in her family. It's not that she no longer has dreams and plans for the future; it's just that she realizes they aren't the only things that make her who she is.