They were hateful presences in me.
-- Joseph (N/A)

Importance: This is the opening sentence of the novel. Joseph, the main character, makes this statement about his parents. This line begins the exposition about the dysfunctional relationship he has with his parents, and it emphasizes the sense of deep antipathy he had for them and for their sedentary way of life.

I got along with the [carnival] freaks. I made a point to. It was as if I had to acclimate myself to the worst there was.
-- Joseph (N/A)

Importance: Joseph makes this statement in narration regarding his time working for the Hearn Bros. Carnival. This statement emphasizes his urgent personal need for adventure and new experiences, and he apparently views his time in the carnival as a chance to experience a sense of general debasement.

... loons diving into the cold black lake and diving out again in a whorl of clinging water…taking a fish … birds...
-- Warren (N/A)