How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Section.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Babbitt did not drive home, but toward the center of the city. He wished to be by himself and exult over the beauty of intimacy with William Washington Eathorne. (17.1.22)
Once Babbitt feels like he's become friends with a big shot like William Washington Eathorne, he decides to drive around by himself instead of going home to his family. Being friends with super rich people helps fulfill Babbitt's desire to climb his way up the social ladder. In other words, the only reason he cares about being Eathorne's friend is because the guy is rich.
Quote #8
But at the Roughnecks' Table they did not mention Paul. They spoke with zeal of the coming baseball season. He loved them as he never had before. (22.2.1)
Babbitt is devastated when his best friend Paul goes to jail. He dreads hearing everyone at the social club talk about the scandal. But the men, to their credit, have the good sense to avoid this topic and to talk about things that'll take Babbitt's mind off his problems.
Quote #9
Babbitt returned to his office to realize that he faced a world which, without Paul, was meaningless. (22.3.1)
Finally, Babbitt faces the fact that without Paul, his entire life appears to be meaningless. This is because Paul is the only guy Babbitt has ever been able to talk to about his negative feelings. With Paul gone, Babbitt feels like he's alone in an empty world. He's lost his only emotional outlet.