In Sinclair Lewis's novel "Main Street," the character expresses a profound conflict of allegiance through the quote: "If that woman is on the side of the angels, then I have no choice; I must be on the side of the devil." This statement highlights the narrator's struggle with moral choices and societal expectations. The reference to angels and devils symbolizes the dichotomy between conventional morality and individualism.
This internal conflict reflects the broader themes of the book, where the protagonist grapples with the stifling norms of small-town life versus her desire for authenticity and change. The quote encapsulates the idea that often, standing for one side might mean opposing the other, illustrating the complexity of human relationships and the personal cost of staying true to oneself.