Sometimes I feel / my life would be easier / if I didn’t feel like such a debt / to a God / that don’t really seem / to be out here checking for me.
-- Xiomara Batista ( Part I: "In the Beginning Was the Word": "God")

Importance: This quote reflects Xiomara's sense that Catholicism imposes many obligations on her but does not provide much relevant support as she tries to work through her own struggles. Xiomara's struggle with her faith is a significant theme in the novel.

She tells me this country is too soft / it gives kids too many choices.
-- Xiomara Batista ( Part I: "In the Beginning Was the Word": "'Mami,' I Say to Her on the Walk Home")

Importance: This quote reflects Mrs. Batista's attitude toward her children's identities as Dominican Americans. As a an immigrant, Mrs. Batista believes the country provides opportunities but also believes these opportunities lead to children becoming spoiled.

I touch my tongue to the word volition, / like it’s a food I’ve never tasted / that’s already gone sour in my mouth.
-- Xiomara Batista (Part I: "In the Beginning Was the Word": "Father Sean")

Importance: Xiomara considers the meaning of...