A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

“I think it’s good that people like us can waste something once in a while and get the feeling of how it would be to have lots of money.” 

Katie says this to her sisters when her sisters get upset that she is allowing Francie to dump her coffee out rather than drink it. This quote reveals how class-conscious the Nolan family is. It also shows readers that at this point in the novel the Nolans are hopeful rather than resigned.

“Old age isn’t such a tragedy. […] [W]e all have to get old someday. So get used to the idea as quickly as you can.” 

Katie says this to Francie when Francie tries to talk about her fear of old age. The quote touches on one of this novel’s major themes: what it means to get older. Though Katie is insisting old age has its benefits, the quote is ironic, since as Francie gets older, she finds that growing up makes life sadder rather than happier. 

“She’s my best girl now and there is nothing more to say about it.” 

Johnny says this to Hildy and Katie to establish his affection for Katie and the end of his relationship with Hildy. While the comment is meant to silence Hildy’s protestations, its ability to silence seems to have lasting implications for Katie as well. The quote demonstrates the matter-of-fact ground on which Johnny believes his relationship with Katie rests. Katie seems to have absorbed this matter-of-factness as well, as she refuses to fight with or give up on Johnny despite the obvious damage he causes her and her children.