In her memoir "The Glass Castle," Jeannette Walls reflects on the complex dynamics of her upbringing, highlighting the sacrifices made for survival. The quote "One thing about whoring: It put a chicken on the table" underscores the harsh realities her family faced. It suggests that even amid challenging circumstances, there were moments of sustenance and necessity that allowed them to continue. This point illustrates the lengths to which individuals might go to provide for themselves and their loved ones, no matter how morally ambiguous those actions may seem.

Walls’ narrative delves into the struggles and resilience of her family life, marked by poverty and an unconventional lifestyle. By sharing this quote, she emphasizes the pragmatic decisions made in dire situations. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by many in similar socioeconomic conditions, capturing the intersection of survival and moral compromise in the pursuit of a better life. Ultimately, the memoir reveals how such experiences shape one's identity and understanding of family and responsibility.