Out of the Dust Dissatisfaction Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Stanza)

Quote #1

From the earliest I can remember / I've been restless in this / little Panhandle shack we call home. (1.4)

Billie Jo's itchy feet didn't start because of the dust storms or even Ma's death—her desire to book it has been building for a while. While their small house is the only home she knows, she seems to have always been dissatisfied with her life and desiring something more.

Quote #2

Now Livie's gone west, / out of the dust, / on her way to California, / where the wind takes a rest sometimes. / And I'm wondering what kind of friend I am, / wanting my feet on that road to another place / instead of Livie's. (3.6)

Billie Jo might be jealous that Livie gets to leave while she has to stay, but she doesn't have the whole story on why the family is leaving. They're not going away to California for kicks and giggles, but because their farm has failed and they don't have a choice. Unaware of this, Billie Jo sees the move as an adventure her friend gets to take instead of her.

Quote #3

Someday, / I plan to play for President Franklin Delano Roosevelt / himself. / Maybe I'll go all the way to the White House in / Washington, D.C. (7.2)

Billie Jo's grand plans to see other places reveals her dissatisfaction with her current life.