I think I'd forgotten that she had been free before my birth—even joyful?
-- Narrator (I)

Importance: When Eddy first discovers the photo of his mother as a 20-year-old young woman, he experiences a loss of language. He is unsure how to describe what he sees in the photo. Indeed, the image represents a much freer and happier version of the woman he has known for his entire life. In this moment, Eddy attempts to render what the photograph depicts, captures, and represents. The line's construction conveys Eddy's internal struggle to understand his mother as an individual who was once young and who once had dreams, ideals, and goals.

At least I'm going to be happy.
-- Monique (I)

Importance: Throughout Monique's marriage to Eddy's father, she is constantly miserable. This misery, however, is not self-imposed. Indeed, Eddy's father is not only an alcoholic, but is constantly belittling, berating, and humiliating Monique. He also controls every facet...