He understood Epstein hanging himself in his cell—because what would life look like, afterward?
-- Narrator (Pages 2 - 11)

Importance: At the start of the short story, Harvey wakes up sweating at four in the morning. He tells himself that he is not waking up because of nightmares or fears associated with his upcoming trial. Though the narrator has yet to introduce Harvey by name in this passage, context clues allow the reader to infer his identity. This moment particularly points to who Harvey is, the truth of his circumstances, and the world he is therefore terrified of losing. This line contributes to the author's explorations regarding power, fear, and conviction.

A thrill just to make contact. A meeting of equals.
-- Narrator (Pages 2 - 11)

Importance: When Harvey first realizes that Don DeLillo is the elderly man living next door, he is thrilled. He immediately makes his acquaintance, despite his earlier fears that Vogel's neighbors might discover who he is...