"Our house is made of glass... and our lives are made of glass; and there is nothing we can do to protect ourselves"

This quote by Joyce Carol Oates speaks to the fragility of life and the lack of control we have over our own destiny. It recommends that our lives resemble a house made of glass, vulnerable and exposed to the elements. We can do nothing to safeguard ourselves from the outside world, and our lives can be shattered in an instant. The quote indicates that life is unpredictable and vulnerable, which we need to accept this and live our lives to the maximum. It also suggests that we must bear in mind our actions and how they might affect others, as our lives are all adjoined. Eventually, this quote serves as a pointer to appreciate today moment and to be mindful of our actions, as life is short lived and vulnerable.