How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
He looks at me and sternly says,
"Your eyesight's much too keen." (7-8)
Marco and his dad clearly don't see eye-to-eye, pun fully intended.
Quote #2
And that is a story that no one can beat,
When I say that I saw it on Mulberry Street. (27-28)
In the normal world, Mulberry Street is just another suburban street. But in Marco's world, it's a veritable wonderland. How could you say no to that?
Quote #3
But I think it's a shame,
Such a marvelous beast
With a cart that's so tame. (30-32)
Marco's version of reality doesn't allow for things to be mediocre. Everything has to be fantastic, down to the smallest detail.
Quote #4
Dad looked at me sharply and pulled at his chin.
He frowned at me sternly from there in his seat. (117-118)
Uh-oh… Marco's dad clearly doesn't buy into any of the shenanigans of his world, so he better change it fast.
Quote #5
"Nothing," I said, growing red as a beet,
"But a plain horse and wagon on Mulberry Street." (121-122)
In the end, Marco decides to tell his dad what he wants to hear, so he delivers the safe version of reality and keeps his magical one to himself. After all, his dad in all his adult-ness would never appreciate it anyway.