How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Volume.Chapter.Section.Page). We used the 50th Anniversary Edition published by Signet Books in 2007.
Quote #7
She lay on her back, her palms pressed to the sheet at her sides, to stop herself from rising and walking into his room, knowing that she was capable even of that.... (3.2.3.14)
This is one of the few scenes where Dagny seems almost out of control. Her fight against her desire for John is interesting, since she would argue that sexual desires shouldn't be ignored.
Quote #8
"For two years, I had been Hank Rearden's mistress. Let there be no misunderstanding about it: I am saying this, not as a shameful confession, but with the highest sense of pride." (3.3.3.16)
It makes sense that Dagny, whose values are the opposite of those of society, would consider being a "mistress" something to be proud of.
Quote #9
He jerked her closer, to stifle the sight of his own shudder. His hands were going through the automatic motions of intimacy – and she complied, but in a manner that made him feel as if the beats of her arteries under his touch were snickering giggles. (3.4.3.13)
The awkward and spiteful sex scene between James and Lillian greatly contrasts to the scenes we get with Dagny and her various lovers. The diction, or word choice, is telling here: James is described as using "automatic motions," while Lillian seems to be "snickering."