Don't tell anyone, but when he reads something that he likes he gets real happy, turns on the music, and dances by himself, or with a broom sometimes. Mum's the word." "I suppose it's because his wife's dead," said Christiana, "that he dances with a broom." "I don't think so," said Boonya. "He dances with a mop, too." "Maybe he had a mistress." "He did, but she had short hairs. I also got short-haired mops.
The passage illustrates a character's secret joy in reading, where he indulges in happy dances at home, sometimes accompanied by a broom. This quirky behavior suggests a whimsical side to his personality, contrasting with the somber note of his wife's death. The discussion between Christiana and Boonya reveals their curiosity about his actions, speculating on the reasons behind his dancing with cleaning tools.
Boonya's playful comment about the character's former mistress and the shared trait of short hair adds a layer of humor to the narrative. It emphasizes their lighthearted banter while touching on themes of loss and companionship, showing how even mundane objects like mops and brooms can carry emotional significance. Overall, the scene offers a charming glimpse into the character's solitary yet joyful moments.
