In "The Glass Castle," Jeannette Walls depicts her childhood experiences with a uniquely dysfunctional family. Her mother observes that Jeannette is starting to show a tendency toward sarcasm, indicating a shift in her personality that reflects her response to the difficult circumstances surrounding her. This developing sarcasm can be seen as a coping mechanism for navigating the challenges of her upbringing.

This remark hints at the complex dynamics within the family, where humor, often infused with sarcasm, serves as a tool for resilience. Jeannette's sarcastic streak further illustrates her ability to adapt and find light in dark situations, characteristic of her journey throughout the memoir. As she grows, this trait becomes part of her identity amidst the chaos of her family's life.