Maybe a uniform would keep him from drink, instead of pushing him toward it. Maybe he would be sent to Korea. Maybe he would come back strong and capable.
-- Narrator (Chapter 2)

Importance: This quote concerns James. If he does not escape his poverty-ridden family in Chicago, he fears that he will end up an alcoholic like his father. James goes so far as to consider signing up for the military to get him away from home. James’ uncle gives James the money he needs to attend college, keeping James out of the armed forces.

His father thought religion was a farce.
-- Narrator (Chapter 3)

Importance: This quote refers to Charles and his relationship with his father. When Charles tells his father that he wants to preach, his father leaves the house and slams the door behind him.

This antisocial attitude branded her as a grinder who cared about grades more than anything else; it was not a...
-- Narrator (Chapter 3)