How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
Fine clothes to [Carrie] were a vast persuasion; they spoke tenderly and Jesuitically for themselves. When she came within earshot of their pleading, desire in her bent a willing ear. The voice of the so-called inanimate! (11.1)
Uh… this is a little creepy: Carrie is hearing voices… from her clothes. And not only do they speak to her, but they speak tenderly and pleadingly. They have sophisticated rhetorical ability, we might say. This isn't your average instance of personification—or attributing human characteristics to inanimate objects. This is attributing some pretty advanced human capacities to a pair of designer boots, suggesting that the boots may be more powerful than some of the people who wear them.
Quote #5
Mrs. Hale loved to drive in the afternoon in the sun when it was fine, and to satisfy her soul with a sight of those mansions and lawns which she could not afford. (12.30)
Looking at this stuff satisfies Mrs. Hale's soul? LOL.
Quote #6
[Carrie] imagined that across these richly carved entrance-ways, where the globed and crystalled lamps shone upon paneled doors set with stained and designed panes of glass, was neither care nor unsatisfied desire. She was perfectly certain that here was happiness. (12.30)
Okay, so we know this is baloney that rich people's live are perfect, but is it really so terrible for Carrie to have all these illusions? What's the harm?