You don't let it rage into a mountain of light, because that's not becoming of a girl. You keep it secret.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: On the night that Nightbitch first starts turning into her dog self, she feels a white hot light burning inside of her. She recognizes this light as the source of her innate womanly ability to create. She also recognizes the light's birth during girlhood, and the childhood understanding that she is not allowed to let this light show. This moment establishes the author's interest in exploring the complexities of womanhood and motherhood, both in the domestic and the societal realm. Like Nightbitch, the author suggests that all women are taught to quell their inherent ferocity and power, a habit that ultimately leads to suppression and oppression.

Happiness is a choice . . .
-- The Husband (chapter 1)

Importance: Although Nightbitch's husband is rarely at home, whenever he is home, he shows frustration with Nightbitch's moodiness. One day...