Even when there was rain, Rakesh would sometimes water the tree. He wanted it to know that he was there.”
-- Rakesh (chapter 1)

Importance: Rakesh forms a deep connection with his cherry tree because his newfound role as a nurturer brings him joy. He sees the tree as an extension of himself somehow, and so he wants to take care of the tree's well-being and see it grow to produce fruit. Rakesh loves nature and the opportunity to grow the cherry tree provides Rakesh with the experience of being immersed in the world around him.

Romi and Teju looked at each other in the glow from the fire. They hadn’t known each other very well before. But now they felt they had been friends for years.”
-- Romi (chapter 4)

Importance: This quote represents the close friendship that grows between Romi and Teju after surviving the traumatic forest fire together. Romi picks Teju up to help him by...