Read this excerpt from "The Passing" and answer the question. Joe Willow's mother, Fannle, was a short, round woman with mottled brown skin and a high shiny forehead
that wrinkled when she laughed. Jimmy Bear was her second husband, and they used to pass our house
often on thelr way to town. They had once driven an old Dodge, but it no longer ran, and it now sat
lopsided and windowless among the weeds beside thelr lane. Jimmy Bear was a skinny man, but he had a
round, protruding belly and wore his belt under it so It looked as if he carried a basketball Inside. He had
gaps in his teeth and a rough, guttural laugh and walked with a shuffle.
What is the author most likely trying to convey about Joe Willow through the description of his mother and stepfather?
Select all that apply.
His loyalty is to his mother.
He is a hard worker.
His fortune is on a downward swing.
He comes from a humble background.
His parents are unhealthy.
He is due some good fortune.