Back in Rum Alley, Maggie has finally decided to come back home to her apartment and family. However, her mother decided she needs to make Maggie feel mournful for what she did. She believes it is only appropriate to punish her and force her to feel miserable. She finds pleasure in humiliating and mocking her daughter. Maggie leaves the room and heads out. As Maggie leaves, other tenants gaze curiously out from their rooms. The description of the neighbors by Crane illustrates animalistic characteristics. The words “like a wounded animal” dehumanizes the residents and adds to the critical theme of classism.
