THEMES
Independence + feminism / society’s expectations for women — gender roles and stereotypes — marriage
pg. 60 “You understand why I would rather not be divorced, at my age it would be proved disasterous”
Money and the American Dream
Relationships and friendships of women/solidarity
Power of silence and the unsaid — Communication / Miscommunication
pg 61 — “Esther wants to say something but she can’t quite find the words” (to Mr Marks)
“thank you for not asking” Esther to Mrs Dickson
Social class, discrimination, and racism
Work, craft, and the importance of hands — art
“DON’T! This quilt is filled with my hard work, 100 dollars every year I have been seated at my sewing machine”
Touch and the senses
Sex
Religion
Forbidden Love