She was unafraid.
-- Narrator (Pages 29 - 34)

Importance: Almost immediately upon meeting Paola, Clodagh is enamored of her. Because of Paola's classy manner of dressing and lilting Italian accent, Clodagh makes a series of conjectures about her character. This line is an excerpt from the passage in which Clodagh describes Paola's mysterious and captivating nature. The moment reveals the ways in which Clodagh sees in Paola what she wants to see, rather than what might in fact be true.

Get over it.
-- Paola (Pages 29 - 34)

Importance: Over the course of Clodagh's relationship with Paola, she comes to rely upon the professor for support, guidance, and advice. However, when she comes to Paola about her sexual assault, Paola responds with the above line. Paola is not only dismissive, but makes Clodagh feel insignificant, childish, and petty. Paola is not, therefore, the person who Clodagh has perceived, wanted, and needed her to be. Clodagh is indeed as marginal to Paola's life...