Baggage means no matter how far you go, no matter how many times you immigrate, there are countries in you you’ll never leave.
-- Narrator (Prologue, Or Gali-La!)

Importance: This quotation mark is from the prologue, which introduces the reader to the character of Paz. Paz grew up in a poor Filipino family and always dreamed of immigrating to America, eventually fulfilling this dream and moving to California. However, her childhood struggles remain with her for the rest of the novel and her need for acceptance, security, and the appearance of wealth define her character even after she has moved to America. Her origin story serves as the backdrop for the story and is thus extremely important in setting up the main themes of the novel. This quotation captures the essence of her character’s experience, a universal feeling many people can relate to.

Then again, she doesn’t have to love it. She’s...
-- Narrator (Prologue, Or Gali-La!)