I have to channel my inner New Yorker--cool and nonchalant. I shoot him a tentative grin. Deep breath. 'That's a big package.' And... shit.
-- Arthur (chapter 1)

Importance: Some of the first words that Arthur says to Ben, currently his "Box Boy," this awkward sexual innuendo sets the foundation for their relationship. It seems small, but this quote contains all of the elements that are present between Arthur and Ben for much of the book. Arthur tries to act cooler than he is, and in doing so, fails to act normal, instead coming off much more brazen than Ben expects. The sexual tension between Arthur and Ben is present from the very beginning, and neither of them really has to doubt that the other is gay when they meet. Arthur establishes what he's after, in his awkward, anxious way right off the bat.

The universe. Holy shit. He's a believer. He believes in...
-- Arthur (chapter 1)