Sometimes, looking at his family, he was flooded with this desire to do for them. I'll build you a house or knit you a sweater, whatever is required. Pursued by wolves? I'll make a bridge of my body so you can cross that ravine. They were all that mattered, but of course they didn't really understand that, because such was the parental contract.
-- Clay (chapter 4)

Importance: Clay's primary concern in life is to take care of and protect his family, particularly the children. This quote comes before there is any sign of danger from the outside world, but later Clay will be frustrated and critical of himself because he is incapable of doing anything of substance to actually help them when threats do appear on the horizon. Without the implements of technology Clay is used to consulting in his daily life, he can accomplish very little.

In her work account, there were questions...
-- Amanda (chapter 5)