So you see,” she said, “you have to be like Switzerland. Do you understand me? You have to hold yourself together and be courageous, say separate and strong. Then, you will have the right kind of life.
-- Emilie (Mutti)

Importance: Emilie instructs a young Gustav on the necessity of managing his emotions if he is going to have a successful life. Although Emilie’s intention is to help Gustav avoid the mistakes she made by behaving emotionally and impulsively in her own life, this advice goes on to emotionally cripple Gustav, making him unable to express his true feelings for Anton until much later in life.

Gustav said, “I think it’s stupid to cry for them, then. Isn’t your mother angry that you keep crying?” Anton took his hands away from his face and stared at Gustav. “No,” he said, “she understands that I’m unhappy.
-- Gustav / Narration / Anton (Anton)

Importance: Gustav confronts Anton over his...