Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death and racism, including enslavement and racist violence.

“[B]ecause his brother always ate three,

and then he gets quiet,

his eyes all glassy,

his big, wide grin

showing off his white teeth

like he’s laughing

to keep from crying.”

This simile about the line between laughter and tears is an example of Nana Kofi’s emotionality. His reaction foreshadows that his brother died at a young age, a fact that Charley will learn later. His “glassy” eyes emphasize the sadness he experiences, while his “big, wide grin, showing off his white teeth,” shows how he is projecting an image of happiness amid pain to his granddaughter—something that Charley notices here.

“He’s not a girl, though.

Maybe I’ll be the first girl pitcher to play professional.

Keep dreaming, Charley.

I will, Willie.”

This quote directly supports the theme of Dreams and Determination and female empowerment. Through her dialogue, it is clear that Charley refuses to give up on her idealistic goals, no matter the odds. The statement “I will, Willie” is declarative; this shows her characteristic assuredness, in contrast to Willie’s skepticism.

“[H]e didn’t

have to be

that insulted

when Cecil called me

his gal-friend.”

Willie is offended when Cecil implies that Charley is his “gal-friend.” While the two are close friends, Willie takes insult to her being anything more. This quote emphasizes Charley’s annoyance, as she feels upset at Willie’s rejection—evidenced by her emphasis on “that insulted.”