People said that hearing Delia Byrd sing in concert was like hearing heartbreak in a whole new key.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: Allison invents the phrase "hearing heartbreak in a whole new key," which works wonderfully in this context. First, she uses alliteration, repeating "h" sounds. Second, the quote underscores the power of Delia's voice and musical abilities to elicit emotion. This line is important as well because that context explains why so many characters think Delia could have had a huge solo career.

She didn’t like the parties anymore, and she’d never enjoyed talking business. Drunk or sober, Delia lived in the small town in her heart, ignoring the world in which all her love had turned to grief.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: While the previous quote shows us that Delia was capable of becoming a huge star on her own, this quote explains one of the many reasons why she chose never to pursue...