…I found your letter a little harsh, and calling me a ‘son of a bitch’ won’t change the fact that Israeli Jews can’t seem to get enough of bacon or that I sell it to them in a restaurant in Tel Aviv, by the way.
-- Harry (to Rabbi Cattan)  (Section 1)

Importance: This quote, from the first piece of correspondence in the book (in which the narrative unfolds entirely through correspondence) sets the initial, confrontational tone for the relationship between Harry and the character who eventually becomes a good friend, confidante, and ally - the Rabbi Moshe Cattan. It also outlines the central argument between the two - over the different values, intentions, and practices associated with being Jewish.

It’s hard to believe that tears evaporate and go to the same place as the water from the ocean, the rain, and the toilet bowl … I’d pay the heartache doctor’ I’d give him...
-- Annabelle (to Harry) (Section 1)