What a frustration! When, now, would I know the full pleasures of the marriage-bed?
-- Hans Vollman (chapter 1)

Importance: In this passage, Hans Vollman laments the fact that his new marriage has not yet been consummated. Because of this regret, he has forced himself into a state of denial, believing he is merely sick and not dead. This state of regret and denial is what keeps Vollman stuck in the bardo, and this particular case helps to establish the dynamic affecting all occupants of the bardo.

I am waiting to be discovered…so that I may be revived, and rise…and begin to live!...Having come so close to losing everything, I am freed now of all fear, hesitation, and timidity.
-- Roger Bevins (chapter 9)

Importance: This quotation functions similarly to the above quotation, although this quotation concerns Roger Bevins. Bevins regrets his decision to kill himself, and he is thus in a state of denial about his death. This...