Summary

Page 91 – 96. The story begins with the first-person narrator (Dr. Louise Banks) telling her child of the night she was conceived, and of the conversation between Dr. Banks and her daughter’s father. “This is the most important moment in our lives, and I want to pay attention, note every detail” (91).

(Here it is essential to note that the use of verb tense in the story (i.e. past / present) is complex, but ultimately gives the impression that Dr. Banks is telling the story, as she remembers it, to the child as she remembers HER but before events actually happen. For example: “I remember the scenario of your origin you’ll suggest when you’re twelve” (91). The context of this multi-layered use of verb tense is referred to throughout this analysis as the “narrative present," and is reflective of key story points made later in...