How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
There was a moment when I could have fallen for either one of them, and then everything bent to one side, toward the slender, slighter, younger one. (8.58)
What is it about Esther that elicits Augie's love? Why does he bend towards her rather than her sister? Augie's romantic attractions follow the pattern of his basic life interests. He's all over the place and never at one place for long.
Quote #2
Also, she has no notion how much in love I was, down to the poetic threat of death. (8.67)
Do you agree with Augie that he's really in love with Esther? Once she rejects him, she ceases to be much in his thoughts, at least as reported to us. She came out the blue and went right back into it.
Quote #3
"You couldn't love Esther if you knew her. You're like me. That's why you fell in love. She couldn't. Augie! Why don't you change to me?" (8.115)
Thea's feelings for Augie seem to be more long lasting than his feelings for Esther. Does that tell us anything? Does she love him more than he loves her?