But the wind and water know all the earth's secrets. They've seen and heard all that has ever been said or done. And if you listen, they will tell you all the stories and sing every song.”
-- Eoin (Prologue)

Importance: This is part of a conversation between Eoin and Anne in 1976, when Anne is just a child. The flowing prose seems to be a natural part of Eoin's dialogue and sets the tone for the novel. This is also an important note about the significance of the title of the novel. Anne lives in the present and the past, and the wind and water are two constants that appear in both time frames.

I told you. You told me. And you will tell me again. Only the wind knows which truly comes first.”
-- Eoin (chapter 1)

Importance: Eoin seems to be speaking in riddles, but he is actually foretelling what is about to happen to Anna. They...