It’s okay. I understand. You have the right to be angry and upset. Look at you—all three have Ivy League law degrees and you’re being escorted out of the building like thieves. Laid off like factory workers. It’s awful, just awful.”
-- Andy Grubman (chapter 1 paragraph 34)

Importance: Andy lays out very clearly how desperate things have become at the firm, while also highlighting the talents of Sam and the others. This helps to establish Sam as well as the setting very early on.

In a chic SoHo loft that cost her $2,000 a month, Samantha flung her office crap at the floor and fell onto the sofa. She clutched her cell phone, but waited. She breathed deeply, eyes closed, emotions somewhat in check. She needed her mother’s voice and reassurance, but she did not want to sound weak, wounded, and vulnerable.”
-- Sam (chapter 2 paragraph 1)

Importance: This passage highlights the type of lifestyle that Sam is used...