I had a powerful sense of having escaped something: of having finally stepped outside the script.
-- Selin (August)

Importance: These are the final words of the novel. Selin is proud of her decision to travel to Moscow as it is her passion for Russian literature—and not her desire to impress anyone—which drives her there. This idea of stepping “outside the script” refers to Selin finally taking a step towards the aesthetic, unconventional lifestyle she craves (312). She escapes the oppressive expectations of her family and acquaintances, embarking on a true adventure.

How many perfect autumns did a person get? Why did I seem always to be in the wrong place, listening to the wrong music?
-- Selin (October)

Importance: This quote captures Selin’s eternal fear of missing out. She is simultaneously grateful to be at Harvard but cannot shake the feeling that she is living her life wrong. Her outlook becomes more positive as the...