How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
It was only the second house the real estate agent showed him, but he took it because he was tired and because the agent was a bully. (7.3)
Homer is so passive that he can't even stand up to a real estate agent, so we shudder to think what might happen if some real trouble were to come his way. Would he be able to handle it? Or would he just curl up into a fetal position and suck his thumb?
Quote #2
His hands seemed to have a life and a will of their own. It was they who pulled the sheets tight and shaped the pillows. (10.2)
The book frequently references the strange divide between Homer and his hands. In a way, this is a reflection of the separation between Homer's conscious and unconscious mind—because he is unable to understand his emotions, he's unable to understand his own actions.
Quote #3
After she had gone, he wondered what living with her would do to Homer. He thought it might straighten him out. (19.6)
At first, Tod thinks that living with Faye will do wonders for Homer and his lack of self-confidence. After all, what's a better pick-me-up than a sexy lady running around the house? Ah, if only it were that simple...