When I return to my great-aunt's house with her ashes, the air feels uncertain, as if it doesn't know what to do with me.
-- Vivian (chapter 1)

Importance: As the very first sentence, it sets the tone for how Vivian feels, and perceives the world around her, throughout the novel. People she encounters, with the exception of Penelope, react to her in a similar way.

I cannot explain myself to people who peer out windows and think they know the world."
-- Vivian (chapter 2)

Importance: Vivian feels as though there is no point trying to explain her point of view to anyone as it varies so greatly from that of everyone else. Her view, and that of her neighbours', is so different that they would not see her perspective.

She was born first and has more rights to the name; I whisper mine in apology. I would like a nickname but nicknames must be given, not taken.”
-- Vivian (chapter 2)

Importance: Vivian...