Inequality prevents people from being able to be taken seriously. Ellen is concerned that their farm is not growing and that they do not have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. When she brings up these concerns Paul says “ You think that in town you'd have a better time - not so much work - more clothes -" (76). He does not think that she cares about her family, rather he thinks she is selfish. She wants to go back to town so she has to do less work or she can buy clothes. Paul also says that he does not want to start “Living off your people - charity” (76). He wants to be the man. In his mind he cannot take money from his wife's family or get any type of help in their time of hardship. He thinks it is a disgrace. Ellen is also “[...]a
