“Push” is a powerful novel written by Sapphire that delves into the life of Precious Jones, a young African-American girl living in Harlem. The book explores themes of abuse, poverty, and resilience. It was later adapted into the critically acclaimed film “Precious” in 2009. Throughout the novel, Sapphire presents the readers with thought-provoking quotes that resonate with the struggles and triumphs of the characters. In this article, we have compiled a list of some of the most memorable quotes from “Push.”
Precious Jones, the protagonist of the story, faces numerous challenges throughout her life. From enduring physical and emotional abuse to overcoming illiteracy, Precious’s journey is one of strength and determination. Sapphire’s writing captures Precious’s voice and emotions, painting a vivid picture of her experiences. The quotes from “Push” offer glimpses into Precious’s inner thoughts and the harsh realities she faces.
Reading “Push” by Sapphire is an emotional rollercoaster that exposes the readers to the harsh realities of life for marginalized communities. The quotes from the novel provide insights into the characters’ struggles, resilience, and the power of hope. These quotes serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the impact of education. Let us now delve into some of the most impactful quotes from “Push” by Sapphire.
Read these quotes from Push by Sapphire
“I don’t know what pretty is. I ain’t never seen pretty. I suppose I want it, though.”
“I wish, too, but it don’t help wishing. It don’t help not wishing neither.”
“I’m so alone. I don’t know who I am.”
“I feel so bad about myself, Ms. Rain. I don’t know what to do. I don’t know who I am.”
“A long time I been on my own, but now I miss my family. I miss my baby girl. I miss my parents. Ain’t nothin’ in this world worth being alone for.”
“I don’t know how to be with people. How to make ’em be with me. I don’t know how to make someone love me.”
“I’m gonna break through or somebody gonna break through to me.”
“I’m gonna take care of my own baby. I’m gonna have a family, Ms. Rain. I’m gonna have a family, which is something I never had.”
“I’m gonna break through or die trying.”
“I’m gonna rewrite my life story.”
“I got to get up and do somethin’ with my life. I wanna be somebody.”
“Sometimes I wish I was not alive. But I don’t know how to die. Ain’t no plug to pull out. ‘N no matter how bad I feel my heart don’t stop beating and my eyes open in the morning.”
“I’m gonna break through or somebody gonna break through to me. I’m gonna have a future. I’m not gonna always be like this.”
“I’m gonna learn to read and write and count.”
“I’m gonna get outta here. I’m gonna get away from my mother. I’m gonna go to Mexico. I’m gonna get away from the welfare. I’m gonna get away from all the dumb shit.”
“I’m gonna be a whole, smart person. I’m gonna learn to read and write and count.”
“I’m gonna be someone you want to know. I’m gonna learn how to talk.”
“I’m gonna get outta here and away from my mother. I’m gonna get away from all the dumb shit.”
“I’ll be able to read, to read and write.”
“I’m gonna be a whole person.”
“I’m gonna be on TV. I’m gonna be on the cover of a magazine.”
These quotes from “Push” by Sapphire highlight the resilience, determination, and longing for a better life that Precious Jones embodies. Her journey is an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit. Through these quotes, Sapphire encourages us to confront the harsh realities of life and find hope and empowerment in the face of adversity.







