How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Also, since belief is optional in these parts, I'm choosing not to believe in the cut in my leg. This is not a good place for getting injured. (18.17)
Sym's cut definitely exists. Is she living in denial? Or is she simply redirecting her attention since she can't do much about it?
Quote #8
The mind's a three-ring circus! Music. Lights. Happiness. Wonder. Color. All my life I've gone there when Life got too drab or unkind or lonely or miserable, and it's hardly ever let me down. (22.2)
Sym daydreams to escape her difficult reality. It's a means of survival, a way of giving herself a boost in order to keep going.
Quote #9
When the bombs are falling, what's so clever about staying outdoors? Inside my head I've built this air-raid shelter. (22.59)
Sym's description of her imagination as an air-raid shelter is telling. She daydreams so she can continue living, slipping into her mind when the outside world gets to be more than she can bear.