How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Scene.Line). Every time a character talks counts as one line, even if what they say turns into a big long monologue.
Quote #22
Laura, stretched out on the sofa, clenches her hand to her lips, to hold back a shuddering sob. (Scene Six stage directions).
Laura is acutely aware of and bothered by her deficiencies.
Quote #23
Laura sits up nervously as Jim enters. She can hardly speak from the almost intolerable strain of being alone with a stranger. (Scene Seven, stage directions).
Although she has feelings for Jim, Laura is at first unable to enjoy his company because of her shyness.
Quote #24
"And everybody was seated before I came in. I had to walk in front of all those people. My seat was in the back row. I had to go clumping all the way up the aisle with everyone watching!" (7.103, Laura).
When Laura finally reveals some stories from high school, we, the audience, begin to understand where her shyness comes from.