They are guided by desire—their world is made up of their desires.
-- Narrator (Prologue)

Importance: While watching Vladimir sleep tied to his chair, the narrator starts writing a piece about old men. In this excerpted line from the piece, the narrator muses on what it is that she likes about this demographic. She is drawn to their desire, and even identifies with it. This moment is revealing of the narrator's character, foreshadows the ways in which desire will come to guide her life, and contributes to the author's explorations concerning desire.

I would never have anything to say.
-- Narrator (I)

Importance: While reflecting on her academic and artistic past, the narrator recalls a conversation she had with a visiting writer during her PhD program. The writer's words about having something to say before beginning a piece unnerve the narrator. She has felt insecure ever since. This moment is revealing of her fears and doubt concerning...