--and need to see a proper doctor. A clinic. We keep trying. And nothing. You're thirty-five this year."
-- Michel (Visitation: 4, Page 23)

Importance: Michel's belief that they need to see a doctor is the reader's first clue that Leah is hiding her pregnancy and therefore lying about her interest in having children.

Whenever I'm thinking: Where did all the good brothers get to? I think, breathe: at least there's Meeshell."
-- Leah's Coworker (Visitation: Chapter 8, Page 39)

Importance: Here, this statement of Leah's coworkers touches on the unique tensions that Leah's marriage to a black man, as a white woman, creates for her at work, where she is the only white woman. They consider Leah's marriage to Michel an act of theft.

Let me help, maybe I can...there are places that...that help."
-- Leah Hanwell (Chapter 14, Page 61)

Importance: Leah offers Shar help when she sees her again on the street. The repeated ellipses in the statement are evidence of her uncertainty and insecurity.

Fuckin' dyke cunt.
-- Unknown (Visitation: Chapter 18, Page 88)

Importance: Although...