“Dreams change.” She says, “Realities change. People change. We all go through it in different ways.”
The quote demonstrates a great awareness of the flexibility and evolution of life. The protagonist's mother reminisces about her upbringing and her ambitions to become an archaeologist. Through her tale, she teaches a vital lesson about the nature of dreams and how they can change over time. She recognizes that dreams, like realities, and people are dynamic. This insight emphasizes the inevitability of growth and adaptation throughout life. Furthermore, by emphasizing that each individual experiences these changes differently, she underscores the significance of embracing personal alterations and allowing oneself to evolve. The phrase captures the subject of embracing change, emphasizing the inherent dynamism of human experiences and the necessity to handle them with openness and resilience.
“Hurt people hurt people,”
The quote has a profound meaning in the context of Jack's life and his relationship with his see-yah. It encapsulates the cycle of suffering and tragedy that can pass down from generation to generation. Jack's see-yah endured the hardships that Native Americans faced in the late 1800s and early 1900s such as displacement, epidemics, and harsh legislation. These events left lasting scars and tormented him for the rest of his life. Similarly, Jack went through a difficult phase in his adolescence making decisions that he later regretted. The phrase says that those who have been mistreated unconsciously inflict suffering on others, unintentionally prolonging the circle of hurt. It's also worth noting that Jack's see-yah played an important role in breaking the pattern by becoming his guardian and teaching him essential lessons about resilience and strength. Overall, the quote emphasizes the significance of acknowledging the intergenerational impact of trauma as well as the need for empathy, understanding, and support to break away from the cycle of pain.
"The shame of it makes my skin feel tight. The wrongness of it makes me sick."
The protagonist, Maisie, muses on the aftermath of a fight with her stepfather in this quote. The bodily sensations she feels powerfully communicate the strength of her feelings. Her feelings of humiliation stem not only from her cruel comments but also from her recognition of the unfairness and injustice in her acts. The statement "The wrongness of it makes me sick," emphasizes the gravity of her guilt. Maisie realizes the depth of her error as she admits the error of her remarks and their impact on Jack. This introspective scene demonstrates Maisie's maturity and self-awareness as she wrestles with her misdeeds and looks for a means to make atonement. It highlights the complexity of human relationships and the weight of the words people choose to express their emotions.
"Therapy will help. I know you probably feel trapped by your own thoughts and emotions right now. But it won’t always be like that."
Jack gently acknowledges the protagonist's current emotional challenges and offers a glimpse of hope for their future. By identifying the protagonist's overpowering thoughts and emotions, Jack confirms their experience and exhibits a deep knowledge of their emotional anguish. The expression "feel trapped" expresses a sense of suffocation and imprisonment, highlighting the intensity of their emotional condition. By recommending therapy as a kind of support, Jack emphasizes the transforming power of professional assistance, underlining that the protagonist's current difficulties are not permanent. This quote encourages the protagonist to trust in the possibility of healing and growth, reminding them that treatment can provide solace and tools for navigating their emotions.
