There are men with such odd characteristics that they must hide their faces in order to pass through the streets unmolested, and women who have such peculiar features they live in rooms without mirrors.
-- Coralie (chapter 1 paragraph 1)

Importance: In her narration, Coralie introduces the heart of life amongst the “freak shows” of Coney Island. Although the differences of these people make their lives difficult and force them to behave in ways they wouldn’t usually have to, the author invests Coralie’s description with a sense of wonder and fascination which make these people seem like rare beauties rather than monstrosities.

I did not need further instructions. I understood that all of my life had been practice for this very moment. Without being asked, I slipped off my shoes. I knew how to swim.
-- Coralie (chapter 1 paragraph Final)

Importance: This is the moment in Coralie’s narration where she recalls the first time the Professor informed her that she...