In Harold Pinter's play "The Homecoming," the character Ruth offers a challenging ultimatum. Her statement, "If you take the glass…I'll take you," reflects a complex interplay of power and desire. This moment is loaded with tension, revealing her authority in a setting fraught with familial conflict. Ruth positions herself as a pivotal figure, using a seemingly simple object—a glass—as a metaphor for deeper emotional and relational commitments.

This quote encapsulates the themes of negotiation and control that run throughout the play. Ruth's willingness to set conditions foreshadows her pivotal role in the family's dynamics, signaling a transformation in the existing power structures. The interaction suggests a layered relationship between the characters, where small gestures can carry significant emotional weight, further emphasizing Pinter's mastery in exploring human relationships and latent aggression.