So I am named for his longing.
-- Narrator (Not all wounds heal)

Importance: In the opening section of the novel, Libertie attempts to understand her identity by way of her name. Though she knows she was named because of her late father's dreams of freedom, she does not entirely know who her father was or what freedom means. In this moment, she realizes that Robert's desire for freedom was a manifestation of his longing, a sentiment which Libertie soon finds she cannot escape. This moment introduces the author's thematic explorations concerning freedom, loneliness, and longing.

It was sad and cold to be outside her caring.
-- Narrator (Not all wounds heal)

Importance: Because Libertie has never known her father and does not have any siblings, she relies upon her relationship with her mother for a sense of grounding and stability. Therefore, she explains that when her mother becomes distracted by her work, she feels sad and alone. This moment is important in that...