He is indeed a desperate man.
-- Narration (Less at First)

Importance: This statement helps set the tone for Arthur's circumstances at the beginning of the novel. He is struggling in both his personal and professional pursuits, and his trip around the world is a desperate attempt to find new strength, direction, and inspiration in his life.

It’s not really good-bye.
-- Arthur (Less at First)

Importance: Arthur says this to Freddy after Freddy declares that it is time to end their relationship. Contained in this statement from Arthur is the nascent idea that Arthur has developed profound, lasting feelings for Freddy and is not ready to say good-bye. However, it takes Arthur additional time to realize the true nature of his feelings for Freddy.

Where is the real Less? Less the young man terrified of love? The dead-serious Less of twenty-five years ago?
-- Narration (Less at First)

Importance: This narration acts as free indirect discourse in order to relay Arthur's true inner thoughts. At the...