And so, when it comes down to it, it always turns out that no one is in charge of the things that really matter.
-- Nathaniel (Nathaniel Recalls the Miracle)

Importance: In the story's opening section, Nathaniel imagines himself recounting the start of the new millennium. In this fabricated account, Nathaniel attempts reflecting on the monumental aspects of his past, and translating them to a future generation. However, the lesson he extracts from this era is simply that humans have no control over what does and does not happen. This line can be used as a key to understanding Nathaniel's character. Like his comic book hero, Passivityman, Nathaniel chooses ignorance and apathy over cultural engagement.

Then again, how far away does something have to be before you have the right to not really know about it?
-- Narrator (Information)

Importance: While drinking alone in his gallery at night, Lucien reflects on his past. A visitation from his late wife's ghost leads...