“But now, thinking back, it seemed a little silly to be unhappy about a dress when the pilots were dead. If I had it to do over, I would at least have learned their names.”
Ada is reflecting on the fact that she was once upset about having to wear the same dress every day when the reality was that the pilots of the Battle of Britain were dying. She realizes that she should have taken the time to learn their names and honor them in some way. This statement is significant because it demonstrates Ada’s growth and maturity throughout the novel. When the story begins, Ada is focused on her struggles, and she is not aware of the larger world around her. However, as the story progresses and she is exposed to more of the outside world, she begins to develop a deeper understanding of the world and her place in it. Ada’s initial unhappiness about her dress is a small problem compared to the magnitude of the Battle of Britain, and the deaths of the pilots. This quotation is a reflection of that growth, as Ada begins to recognize the importance of honoring those who have made sacrifices for the greater good.
“I wanted to say a lot of things, but, as usual, I didn't have the words for the thoughts inside my head.”
The citation focuses on the internal struggle Ada faces, as she is often unable to fully express her thoughts and feelings. She is a young girl who has been kept inside her home her entire life, never having the opportunity to go to school or learn how to read or write. As a result, she has difficulty expressing herself and understanding the words of others. Therefore, Ada is an example of someone whose life experience has hindered her ability to communicate effectively and articulate her feelings, which can be a common experience for those who have been oppressed. Her journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, as she learns to find her voice and gain the confidence to speak up for herself. The statement highlights the importance of language and communication, and how they can be used to empower and liberate those who have been silenced.
“I don't know what to say…I don't want to tell you a lie, and I don't know the truth.”
This excerpt reflects on the uncertainty and confusion that can come with trying to explain a difficult situation. Susan has been asked by Ada—who is trying to understand why her mother never allowed her to leave the house—if her mother hates her. Susan is uncomfortable with the situation and does not want to lie to Ada, but she also does not know the full truth of what happened. It speaks to the idea that sometimes there is no clear answer to difficult questions, and no one answer can explain everything. Even though Susan does not know the full truth, she still tries to be honest with Ada and explains that she does not have all the information. It also reflects the idea that life is often complex and unpredictable, and that it can be difficult to make sense of difficult situations in our lives. It demonstrates that it is sometimes good enough to not have all the answers and that it is important to be honest and open with each other, even when we don't have all the details.
