How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
But what kept me coming back, once I started, were the tales of the unfortunate women like Saint Agatha, whose breasts were cut off when she refused to renounce her faith…. I was fascinated with the miseries of women who had suffered and borne such afflictions. (1.5.22-24)
Here's a question: Is Jeanne's early fascination with martyrdom in any way related to the way she tells her own stories, especially when she's an adult returning to Manzanar?
Quote #5
On my way home, I would hike past row upon row of black barracks, watching mountains waver through that desert heat, with the sun trying to dry up my very blood, and imagine in some childish way that I was among them, that I too was up there on the screen of history, in a white lace catechism dress, sweating and grimy, yet selflessly carrying my load.
Is internment not enough suffering for Jeanne? Is that why she fantasizes about more suffering? Or is she fascinated with this different kind of suffering—one that's completely specific to Catholic women?
Quote #6
I had found another kind of inspiration, had seen another way the church might make me into something quite extraordinary. I had watched a girl my own age shining at the center of one of their [the Catholic nuns] elaborate ceremonies. It appealed to me tremendously….She was dressed like a bride, in a white gown, white lace hood, and sheer veil, walking toward the altar, down the aisle of that converted barracks. (2.13.25-28)
Okay so maybe Jeanne isn't all about the tortured suffering of Catholic woman saints. Maybe it really is all about that bride-like white gown, or the idea of getting married to some male figure, whether that be God or some (Caucasian?) guy. Or maybe she really just wants to be like a celebrity on the red carpet. Is this a possible factor in her decision to write an autobiography (definitely not the most humble of literary genres)?