How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #4
She had the memory of his numerous trips to Orlando with all of his wages when he had returned to her penniless, even before the first year had passed. (25)
Delia knew Sykes was trouble in the first year? Oy. We think a lot of Delia's inaction can be explained by the fact that the story takes place in the 1920s, when women had few rights or opportunities. It could also be due to her religious sense of duty, or the hope that maybe, just maybe, Sykes will change.
Quote #5
Hot or col', rain or shine, jes ez reg'lar ez de weeks roll roun' Delia carries 'em an' fetches 'em on Sat'day. (32)
Joe Lindsay—one of the porch customers—lets us know just how hard of a worker Delia is. There is a sense of respect and awe for her by the men. They sympathize and root for her, just like us. You go, girl.
Quote #6
Delia's work-worn knees crawled over the earth in Gethsemane and up the rocks of Calvary many, many times during these months. (59)
Ouch. The image of Delia crawling (although not literal) makes us wince. These months are full of suffering for Delia—living with Sykes while he spends her money on another woman, working all day every day, and trying not to succumb to the struggles in her life. Just hold on for one more day, Delia, hold on.