BLOOD BROTHERS QUOTES
Superstition & Fate
Narrator:
"There’s shoes on the table an’ a joker in the pack"
Analysis: This quote introduces a sense of unease and foreshadowing. Shoes on the table are a symbol of bad luck, and the 'joker in the pack' suggests unpredictability and potential danger. The use of informal language ('an’') adds to the sense of foreboding.
"Someone broke the lookin’ glass"
Analysis: Breaking a mirror is a classic superstition signifying seven years of bad luck. This highlights the characters' vulnerability to perceived misfortune. The colloquial term 'lookin’ glass' is a more creative and accessible way of expressing it.
"Now y’ know the devil’s got your number, y’ know he’s gonna find y’, y’ know he’s right behind y’"
Analysis: This is a direct reference to a dark, inescapable fate. The devil symbolizes evil or unavoidable consequences, creating a sense of impending doom. The repetition of "y’ know" emphasizes the inevitability.
"the salt’s been spilled"
Analysis: Spilling salt is an omen of bad luck, traditionally associated with discord and misfortune. It adds to the atmosphere of foreboding. The simple, declarative statement underscores the finality of the bad omen.
"You’re walking on pavement cracks"
Analysis: This seemingly innocuous line suggests vulnerability and the potential for missteps. Walking on pavement cracks is a common superstition, implying minor mishaps or troubles. The use of second person makes it more intimate.
"The dealers dealt the cards, and he won’t take them back"
Analysis: This metaphor implies that fate is unchangeable. The cards have been dealt, and the characters must play their hands, regardless of the outcome. The active voice ("The dealers dealt") emphasizes the force of destiny.
"There’s a black cat stalking and a woman who’s afraid"
Analysis: Black cats are often seen as omens of bad luck, particularly when they cross one’s path. The fearful woman underscores the sense of vulnerability and helplessness. The imagery created draws the reader in.
Mrs. Johnstone:
"Oh God, Mrs. Lyons, never put new shoes on a table…You never know what’ll happen"
Analysis: This quote demonstrates Mrs. Johnstone’s strong belief in superstitions and their potential consequences. It highlights her vulnerability and fear of the unknown. The ellipsis creates a feeling of suspense and uncertainty.
"I’m not superstitious"
Analysis: This contradictory statement reveals Mrs. Johnstone’s internal conflict. While she claims not to be superstitious, her actions and other statements indicate otherwise. This is an example of dramatic irony.
Mrs. Lyons:
"they say that if either twin learns that he was once a pair, they shall both immediately die"
Analysis: This quote is a pivotal plot device, creating dramatic irony. It foreshadows the tragic ending and highlights the artificiality and fragility of the separation between the twins. The use of reported speech ("they say") gives a tone of authority to the superstition.
Edward:
"It’s just a secret, everybody has secrets, don’t you have secrets?"
Analysis: This line, spoken innocently by Edward, highlights the theme of secrets and their corrosive effects. The hidden truth about the twins underlies much of the play’s tension. The use of a rhetorical question engages the audience.
Mrs. Johnstone:
"You never put new shoes on the table"
Analysis: This reiteration emphasizes the power of superstition in Mrs. Johnstone’s life and its impact on her decisions and fears. The emphatic tone stresses the importance of the superstition to her.
Social Class
Edward:
"Don’t you know what a dictionary is?"
Analysis: This innocent question reveals the stark differences in educational opportunities between Edward and Mickey due to their social class. The tone is more bemused than condescending.
"Pissed off. You say smashing things don’t you?"
Analysis: This quote demonstrates Edward's fascination with Mickey's language and slang, highlighting the cultural divide between them. He's using slang within his own speech, trying to fit in.
"Are you feeling better now, Mummy?"
Analysis: This shows Edward's polite and well-mannered upbringing, typical of his middle-class background. The use of “Mummy” is a term of endearment.
"Talk of Oxbridge" (Edward’s Teacher)
Analysis: This reference signifies the high expectations and privileged educational path laid out for Edward, due to his social class. “Talk of Oxbridge” is a euphemism.
"I’m going away to tomorrow…to University"
Analysis: This statement underscores the opportunities available to Edward, setting him on a path of higher education and social mobility, unlike Mickey. “University” is a symbol of opportunity and bright future.
Mickey:
"Gis a sweet" / "Gis a ciggie"
Analysis: These simple requests reflect Mickey's deprived background and his immediate needs, highlighting his lack of material comforts. Shows local dialect.
"It used to be just sweets an’ ciggies he gave me"
Analysis: This line shows Mickey’s reliance on Edward for small pleasures, underscoring the differences in their access to resources. “Used to be” creates a nostalgic tone.
"You sorted it out. You an’ Councillor Eddie Lyons"
Analysis: This statement reveals Mickey’s dependence on Edward's connections and influence, highlighting the power imbalances due to social class. The **direct