You're no better than an animal, a piece of nothingness.
-- Master Yehudi (chapter 1)

Importance: These are the first words that Master Yehudi ever says to Walt. This statement calls attention to Walt's humble circumstances, but it also establishes Yehudi's initial attitude of dominance and superiority over Walt, thereby giving the relationship room to grow and evolve as Walt gains more respect in Yehudi's eyes.

Just because I'd throttled my resistance somewhat, that didn't make me any less of a wisenheimer, any less of the pugnacious little punk I'd always been.
-- Walt (chapter 1)

Importance: This quotation highlights Walt's original disposition as a rebellious child while also drawing attention to the tension introduced by Yehudi's influence. Yehudi introduces strong elements of discipline in Walt's life, and this helps Walt begin to from values of loyalty, patience, and hard work into his outlook.

I was out to prove something, I suppose, to stun [Yehudi] into respecting me.
-- Walt (chapter 1)

Importance: This quotation marks...