How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Stanza)
Quote #4
We shake out our napkins, / spread them on our laps, / and flip over our glasses and plates, / exposing neat circles, / round comments / on what life would be without dust. (11.3)
The fact that there's no escaping dust for this family is a huge part of Billie Jo's dissatisfaction. Seeing the dustless circles on the table is a reminder that life could much easier—not to mention cleaner.
Quote #5
My father will stay no matter what, / he's stubborn as sod. / He and the land have a hold on each other. / But what about me? (40.4)
Along with dissatisfaction, Billie Jo seems to have a selfish streak. When you think about it, it makes sense that Daddy wouldn't want to leave the home he built with Ma. Instead of seeing things from his point of view, Billie Jo's tunnel vision on leaving seems to just get narrower.
Quote #6
Mrs. Love is taking applications / for boys to do CCC work. / Any boy between eighteen and twenty-eight can join. / I'm too young / and the wrong sex / but what I wouldn't give to be / working for the CCC / somewhere far from here / out of the dust. (92.3)
Having been raised to do farm work with her dad, she's probably just as strong and capable as any boy. The fact that there's an opportunity to get out and work for the government that she's not qualified for only makes Billie Jo more desperate to leave. It also probably stings a little that they only want boys—a reminder of the son her father never had.