She bought it before returning home, bought it because it suggested the sort of life she wanted to lead.
-- Narrator (chapter 1 paragraph 76)

Importance: This quote refers to Catherine's rucksack. It is the type that European alpinists and adventurers used. The fact that she bought it because it suggested the sort of life she wanted to lead shows that she is suffering from an identity crisis. So far she does not see herself leading the adventurous life the quote suggests she craves for. Buying and carrying it seems to serve as much as a reminder to herself that she wants another kind of life. The quote gives readers insight into her character as the novel begins.

She felt the word as much as heard it, felt an eerie shiver she'd come to acquaint with London rubble.
-- Narrator (Catherine: 3 paragraph 30)

Importance: This quote gives more insight into Catherine's character. She's so anxious to have another adventure and make a mark...