He was singularly unencumbered; had no family duties, no social ties, no obligations toward anyone but his landlord.
-- Narration (chapter 1 paragraph 2)

Importance: This description emphasizes the isolation that characterizes Don's personal life. He was born an orphan, was raised by a priest, and now lives on his own with no consistent company other than his dog. This status quo is eventually changed by his growing love for Eden, and although the story recognizes some benefits of solitude, it seems to favor the benefits of love and companionship.

This thing, whatever it was, drank him up as ideas had sometimes done, and he sank into a stupor of idleness as deep and dark as the stupor of work.
-- Narration (chapter 3 paragraph 1)

Importance: This line of narration emphasizes the all-consuming nature of Don's sudden infatuation with Eden. At first, Don hated Eden due to the scolding and the insults she directed towards him. However, due to her beauty, he soon...