Quote #8 - The Help by Kathryn Stockett

July 27, 2011

Page 367 - 368

"I used to believe in [the lines]. I don't anymore. They in our heads. People like Miss Hilly is always trying to make us believe they there. But they ain't... Lines between black and white ain't there neither. Some folks just made those up, long time ago. And that go for the white trash and the society ladies too."

-Aibileen's thought's on the 'lines' separating society

Aibileen finally realizes the lines she learned never to cross when she was younger, aren't really there. They were created by upper class snobs who think they are too good for anybody who isn't like them. This explains why Miss Celia relates to Minny so easily. They are both outside the circle of society that has been deemed acceptable, therefore similar. Society puts lower class and black all on the same level beneath them. So this shows that no matter what color you are in the lower class, you relate to each other more than you would a rich white person. Its almost as if they are of their own race together. It reminds me of the Island of misfit toys. They are unwanted because they are not as nice as the other 'toys,'
 but they find acceptance and friendship with each other.

The fact that Aibileen doesn't see the lines anymore shows that she is growing. I think this shows how she doesn't fear so much about the consequences of her actions anymore. But is her bravery a good thing or bad? On the good side, it means she's finally fighting for what she believes in. She won't take white people's abuse anymore. But on the bad side, it means she's in danger. If she's letting her guard down, she more likely to get caught.

This quote captures an epiphany that I think will occur to all help soon. Perhaps it can even foreshadow future attitudes that arise with other. Will this mean the lines separating society will soon be crossed, or will they be blurred by people who are sick of the past traditions and want to move forward also? I think it means the lines aren't as strong as they used to be, and there will be a change in the dynamics of society. It also leaves me in suspense for Aibileen's future well being. Is she going to do something stupid because she no longer sees the lines society has drawn? Will it cost her her jobs, and if it does what does that mean for the future of Mae Mobley? Will Aibileen teach Mae to believe in herself, and be a beautiful, kind person, or will she never get the chance?