Meaning: This quote, "Kinsey was never a lawyer. She's strictly blue collar," is a statement made by the renowned novelist, Sue Grafton. It is a reference to the protagonist of Grafton's popular mystery series, Kinsey Millhone. The quote reflects the character's background and personality, shedding light on her identity as a hardworking, non-pretentious individual.

Kinsey Millhone is a fictional private investigator who features in Sue Grafton's "Alphabet Series" of mystery novels, which includes titles such as "A is for Alibi," "B is for Burglar," and so on. The series is set in the 1980s and follows Kinsey as she solves various criminal cases in the fictional town of Santa Teresa, California. Throughout the series, Kinsey is portrayed as a no-nonsense, independent, and resourceful character with a strong work ethic.

The quote suggests that Kinsey's professional background is not that of a lawyer, a career often associated with education, wealth, and prestige. Instead, she is described as "strictly blue collar," indicating that she comes from a working-class background and embodies the values and virtues typically associated with that demographic. This characterization serves to distinguish Kinsey from the stereotypical image of a polished, high-society detective or legal professional commonly depicted in mystery novels.

By portraying Kinsey as "strictly blue collar," Grafton imbues her character with a sense of relatability and authenticity. Kinsey is depicted as a woman who has worked hard for everything she has achieved, without the privileges or connections that might come with a more elite professional background. This portrayal aligns with Grafton's intention to create a protagonist who is grounded in reality and who resonates with readers from diverse backgrounds.

Furthermore, the quote also hints at Kinsey's no-frills approach to her work and her life. She is not one to be swayed by the trappings of wealth or status, but rather focuses on getting the job done using her intelligence, intuition, and determination. This down-to-earth quality endears Kinsey to readers and sets her apart from other fictional detectives who might rely on elaborate resources or high-profile connections to solve their cases.

In the context of the broader themes of Grafton's "Alphabet Series," the quote serves as a reminder of the series' commitment to portraying a realistic and multi-dimensional protagonist. Kinsey's blue-collar background not only adds depth to her character but also underscores the series' exploration of social and economic issues. Grafton's choice to make Kinsey a representative of the blue-collar demographic reflects her desire to bring attention to the experiences and perspectives of individuals who are often underrepresented in popular fiction.

Overall, Sue Grafton's quote, "Kinsey was never a lawyer. She's strictly blue collar," encapsulates the essence of her protagonist and the ethos of the "Alphabet Series." It highlights Kinsey Millhone's relatable and unpretentious nature, emphasizing her status as a hardworking and resourceful private investigator. Through this quote, Grafton invites readers to engage with a character who defies stereotypes and embodies the values of determination, integrity, and authenticity.