This is why I left the island where each day still is melted sugar and cinnamon, and birds with diamond throats sing, and silence when it falls is light as mountain mist. Left it for this store, where I have brought together everything you need in order to be happy.”
-- Tilo (Tilo)

Importance: This is Tilo's introduction of the store. She seems to believe early in the novel that she has the power to make everyone happy. What she learns is that she can do only her part, and that the spices and the people still have the power to change her intentions.

Til which ground into paste with sandalwood cures diseases of heart and liver, til which fried in its own oil restores luster when one has lost interest in life. I will be Tilottama, the essence of til, live-giver, restorer of health and hope.”
-- Tilo (Cinnamon)

Importance: This is Tilo's explanation for choosing her...