Who or what things were lifelines with Maya? And how were they lifelines to her?

Maya describes Mrs. Bertha Flowers as being like women in English novels. Mrs. Flowers is the "aristocrat" of black Stamps, she is a gracious woman who encourages Maya's love of literature, and also helps Maya to break out of her muteness. Maya regards her as the pinnacle of humankind. To Maya, Mrs. Flowers truly is a breath of fresh air. She has an intelligent dignity about her that sets her apart from others.