How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Scene.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a big long monologue.
Quote #25
She remains by the table, picks up a piece from the glass menagerie collection, and turns it in her hands to cover her tumult. (Scene Seven stage directions.)
Laura uses the glass menagerie to try to escape from the reality of her current situation with Jim.
Quote #26
"I don’t do anything—much. Oh, please don’t think I sit around doing nothing! My glass collection takes up a good deal of time. Glass is something you have to take good care of." (7.185, Laura).
Laura is similar to the glass not only in her fragility, but in her need to be looked after, paid attention to.
Quote #27
"You know what I judge to be the trouble with you? Inferiority complex! Know what that is? That’s what they call it when someone low-rates himself. I understand because I had it, too." (7.188, Jim).
Just like Tom, Jim recognizes Laura’s situation. However, unlike Tom, Jim tries to do something about it.