How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Paragraph). We used H.T. Willetts's translation.
Quote #7
Either everybody gets a bonus or else they all die together. (315)
Forcing the gangs to "sink or swim" together really causes a lot of the problems in the camp, but it also helps the gangs to cooperate sometimes and probably helps to foster a family-like environment.
Quote #8
His trowel was hidden not far away. The other men in the gang were his friends, but they could easily take it and leave him another. (318)
The family environment of the gang only goes so far, though. Of course, the gang members could be likened to squabbling siblings fighting over clothes/computer time/the car.
Quote #9
Stared at the fire, huddled together in the half dark. Like a big family. That's what a work gang is - a family. (512)
It's interesting that this scene occurs around a fire, which is sort of a romantic/homey image. It almost seems like seeing the fire prompts Shukhov to think of the gang as a big family.