appearences

Quote #1

“And turn that over-light off! Turn that off! I won’t be looked at in this merciless glare!” (1.75)

• Blanche fears harsh light because it exposes her age and reality.

Quote #2

“…You know I haven’t put on one ounce in ten years, Stella? I weigh what I weighed the summer you left Belle Reve.” (1.123)

• Maintaining youth and appearance is central to Blanche’s identity.

Quote #3

“And admire her dress and tell her she’s looking wonderful That’s important with Blanche. Her little weakness!” (2.22)

• Stella enables Blanche’s self-delusion about her appearance.

Quote #4

“Compliments to women about their looks… some of them give themselves credit for more than they’ve got.” (2.103)

• Stanley mocks the illusion of female glamour, highlighting conflict with Blanche’s world.

Quote #5

“…a woman’s charm is fifty percent illusion…” (2.129)

• Blanche admits charm is partly a façade; she lives in fantasy over reality.

Quote #6

“…the Hotel Flamingo is not the sort of establishment I would dare to be seen in!” (5.38-9)

• Blanche’s reputation is shattered; her public image contrasts with her self-presentation.

Quote #7

“It isn’t enough to be soft. You’ve got to be soft and attractive. And I – I’m fading now! I don’t know how much longer I can turn the trick.” (5.60)

• Blanche fears losing her physical allure, which she believes is key to survival.

Quote #8

“She was… tender and trusting… but people like you abused her, and forced her to change.” (8.50)

• Stella defends Blanche’s past innocence, highlighting damage caused by harsh reality.

Quote #9

“Physical beauty is passing… But beauty of the mind and richness of the spirit… I have all of those things… But I have been foolish - casting my pearls before swine!” (10.44)

• Blanche clings to intellectual and emotional qualities as her true value, amid self-deception.