How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Every time you can't write you do something stupid," Helen said. "Though I'll confess that this is a better idea for a diversion than your last diversion." (9.88)
Garp's lust is associated with his self-esteem. If he's satisfied with his work, then it's smooth sailing. If not—well, just go ahead and grab a lifejacket.
Quote #8
The issue was not writing. The issue is me, Helen thought; I want someone paying attention to me. (12.126)
Garp thinks that his affairs won't impact Helen, but—duh—he's wrong. This naïve mentality is directly responsible for sparking Helen's own affair.
Quote #9
It was perhaps his contact with Ellen James that finally cured him of ever looking at young girls in that way [...] Enough of his life had been influenced by lust. (18.29)
Essentially, Ellen becomes Garp's daughter. She understands the dark side of lust better than most, which helps Garp handle his own demons.