How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
This is a time that carves the heart down to a bitter nub, the third woman said. You are luckier than you know, hid in this cove. (6.11)
Lots of people are disappointed by the results of the war, and not just soldiers. What does it take to stay hopeful in such a time, and do Ada and Ruby have it?
Quote #8
She stood there, part in a lethargic daze, part watchful, thinking of what the pilgrim woman had said about Ada's great luck. On such a day as this, despite the looming war and all the work she knew the cove required of her, she could not see how she could improve her world. (6.29)
Ada's been disappointed at lots of moments in the book, but it's nice to see that she has hope, too. It seems that nature is one thing that helps her overcome sorrow.
Quote #9
Then they argued generally for a mile or two as to whether the world might better be viewed as such a place of threat and fear that the only consonant attitude one could maintain was gloom, or whether one should strive for light and cheer even though a dark-fisted hand seemed poised ready to strike at any moment. (8.101)
This is not just a debate two characters are having while they walk. It's a pretty big question for the whole book.