“No one noticed that Cordelia moved in unison with her mother. No one ever did.”

Cordelia’s movement in sync with her mother highlights how emotional and psychological abuse can manifest in subtle ways, often eluding the notice of others. The phrase “no one ever did” emphasizes the societal tendency to overlook signs of abuse, reinforcing the idea that survivors of abuse may operate within a facade that conceals their suffering. This lack of awareness from those around them allows the cycle of control and manipulation to continue unchecked, further entrenching the survivors in their situation. In this way, the quote critiques not only the individual dynamics of Cordelia and Evangeline’s relationship but also the broader societal failure to recognize and address the complexities of emotional abuse.

“None of the schoolbooks had a sample for when your mother had done something terrible to your friend’s father.”

This quote illustrates Cordelia’s overwhelming sense of helplessness in an abusive situation. It underscores her feeling of isolation as she faces a reality that isn’t reflected in her education or societal expectations. The absence of guidance for such a complex emotional crisis leaves her feeling trapped and unsure of how to navigate the moral implications of her mother’s actions. Cordelia’s struggle emphasizes the challenges of confronting familial betrayal, highlighting the inadequacies in support systems for survivors of abuse.