I want to focus my furious ambitions in archaeology...
-- Willie (Narration) (chapter 1)

Importance: This line of narration helps to establish two central tenets of Willie's characterization: her work ethic and her studiousness. Willie has always been a hard worker and a dedicated student, which is why the idea of not being able to finish her PhD is so devastating to her. The question of whether she will be allowed to do so is a central dramatic question of the novel.

How she must have seen only a failure, nothing like the elegant success she had always wanted me to be. A waste of all those years, squeezing herself dry.
-- Willie (Narration) (chapter 3)

Importance: These lines of narration help to establish Vivienne's own investment in Willie's success. Vivienne was a single mother, and it was very difficult for her to raise Willie on her own. Vivienne endured many emotional and financial strains to give Willie as many advantages as...