"You're the only one, Gilbert, who defies a kind of definition or comprehension. I mean, one doesn't know what you want. You don't travel; you don't read; you don't expand yourself. I arrange for you to fly to Chicago, but you won't get on a plane. You play it safe in all things, and I've never known if it's because you're scared or if it's because you're just lazy. Of course, I love you and don't mean to hurt you. You need to examine your life on a deeper, more honest level. Quite simply – you don't know what you want, and it shows. You're a scared little boy."
Janice's statement shows her disappointment in Gilbert's unwillingness to think outside the box and expand his capabilities. According to Janice, she does not understand what Gilbert wants because he does not like traveling, reading, or expanding himself. Therefore, Gilbert is visionless, which worries Janice, who believes that Gilbert can develop himself.
“I'm going to say something I know I'm not supposed to say. I see you, and I know that I'm a god. Or a goddess. Godlike! And this house is my kingdom. Yes, Gilbert. This chair is my throne. And you, Gilbert, are my knight in shimmering armor."
Gilbert's mother sounds paradoxical in her statement, which she intends to use in aiding him to wake up from his inabilities. Gilbert looks very comfortable because he thinks he has everything at his disposal. However, the mother reminds him that she is the owner of the house and everything she owns. Gilbert's mother uses the irony of the throne to remind him that she is the queen and Gilbert is just a knight. Therefore, Gilbert must stand up and make his kingdom and wealth.
“Gilbert, you’re smiling all of a sudden.”
While Amy is wiping Momma's face using a wet rag, she notices that Gilbert is smiling, a rare occurrence in the house. Amy inquires why he is smiling all of a sudden. Gilbert is happy because he is about to escape from his uncertainties and start a new life.
