It was a kind of innocence, this new childhood of old age.
-- Narrator (Pages 1 - 4)

Importance: At the start of the story, Okenwa describes his bimonthly visits with his parents, noticing how much they have changed in their old age. Instead of obsessing over books, science, and logic, they have become more interested in supernatural and fantastical tales. Though Okenwa cannot understand this evolution, he entertains his mother and father with almost parental dismissiveness. This line speaks to the role reversal between Okenwa and his parents, and also mirrors the way his parents regarded his imaginary games as a child.

Raphael?
-- Okenwa (Pages 1 - 4)

Importance: During one visit with his parents, Okenwa listens to his mother and father talk about an increase in robberies and violence. Expecting that the conversation will soon turn into some superstitious fantasy, Okenwa is barely paying attention. Therefore, when his mother mentions that their former houseboy, Raphael, was involved in one such incident...