In what way was quilting an important part of Lillian's life as noted in the memoir, You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me?

Lillian's quilting was a significant aspect of her identity and is described as not being "a hobby. Quilting was her philosophy" (35). For Lillian, quilting was a way to survive in hostile conditions, make money to provide for her family, as well as a way to stay connected to her heritage. Throughout the memoir, quilts act as a symbol of safety, warmth and protection, but they also seen as a memorial of things lost, distance, and determination.