I know that my return to my island and my political life is impossible. The pace of colonial events is quick, the turnover of leaders rapid.
-- Singh (Part 1, Chapter 1)

Importance: This quotation introduces the idea of Singh’s exile, as well as the idea of Singh’s place in the history of colonialism. The status of Isabella as a colonial nation pervades Singh’s narrative, and the nature of colonial politics inherently influences Singh’s story as someone who engaged in the governance of a colonial nation. However, the book does not truly delve into Singh’s political career until Part 3, so this quotation builds suspense in the reader with regards to this aspect of Singh’s life.

We become what we see of ourselves in the eye of others.
-- Singh (Part 1, Chapter 2)

Importance: This statement of Singh’s not only tells the reader and important truth about Singh as a reader, but it also introduces an idea...