How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
The whole street bore the flavours of riches and show, and Carrie felt that she was not of it. She could not, for the life of her, assume the attitude and smartness of Mrs. Vance, who, in her beauty, was all assurance. She could only imagine that it must be evident to many that she was the less handsomely dressed of the two. It cut her to the quick, and she resolved that she would not come here again until she looked better. At the same time she longed to feel the delight of parading here as an equal. Ah, then she would be happy! (31.56)
This passage reveals some of the damaging effects of Carrie's all-consuming desire for wealth. For example, it creates a rivalry between Carrie and her so-called fashionista friend Mrs. Vance that impedes her ability to form a genuine friendship. This is kind of a big thing given that Carrie is miserably lonely and lacking any sense of human connection at the end of the novel.
Quote #8
Once seated, there began that exhibition of showy, wasteful, and unwholesome gastronomy as practiced by wealthy Americans, which is the wonder and astonishment of true culture and dignity the world over. (32.73)
Oh, okay—so it's not wealthy people who behave like, well, pigs—it's wealthy Americans. Does the novel provide any insight into why that might be?
Quote #9
"I shouldn't care to be rich," [Ames] told [Carrie], as the dinner proceeded and the supply of food warmed up his sympathies; "not rich enough to spend my money this way." (32.103)
Okay, Ames, so you like to hate on all these wealthy people showing off their money, we get it. Just one little question for you, though: if you're so against these embarrassing displays of wealth, what on earth are you doing eating at this fancy restaurant? Did somebody say hypocrite?