I as taught to avoid showing off. I was taught to distinguish myself through presentation, not declaration, to excel through deeds and manners, not showing off.”
-- Margo Jefferson (chapter 1 paragraph 1)

Importance: Jefferson is talking about the requirements on the young ladies of her social standing. She goes on to say that there were exceptions, and that she learned very young which of those were acceptable.

I call it Negroland because I still find 'Negro' a word of wonders, glorious and terrible. A word for runaway slave posters and civil rights proclamations; for social constructs and street corner flaunts.
-- Margo Jefferson (chapter 2 paragraph 2)

Importance: This is a look at why Jefferson chooses to use the word Negro instead of black or African American. She goes on to say that the meaning has shifted and to point out the capital “N” made the word more dignified.

We're considered upper-class Negroes and upper-middle-class Americans,' Mother says. 'But most people would like to...
-- Irma Jefferson (chapter 5 paragraph 7)