How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
The store was organized so much like a prison, it frightened her now and then to realize she was a part of it. (1.3)
Yeah, this is a discouraging description of a job, isn't it? No one puts "atmosphere like a prison" on a craigslist posting for a job. You find that out after you get there, especially if you're working retail or food service.
Quote #2
And the loneliness, augmented by the fact one saw within the store the same faces day after day, the few faces one might have spoken to and never did, or never could. (1.7)
How much of this loneliness is self-imposed by Therese? What does she mean by "never could"? What's stopping her? Whatever it is, Therese rebels against this thought by sending a Christmas card to Carol, something that isn't socially acceptable but majorly pays off.
Quote #3
She knew what bothered her at the store. […] It was the waste actions, the meaningless chores that seemed to keep her from doing what she wanted to do, might have done. (1.7)
Therese doesn't like busy work. Perhaps that's how she looks at her disappointing relationship with Richard: busy work. It's definitely how she views sex with him.