They didn't show it, but she knew their yearning pressed so hard against their chests sometimes they ached.
-- Narrator (Part 1: Pages 1 - 62)

Importance: When Vivian first hears that Mr. Franklin wants to meet with her, she becomes convinced that her dreams are on the verge of becoming realized. For years, Vivian has defined herself and her life by her work with her daughters' singing group, the Salvations. She is therefore convinced that her girls also want to become famous singers. This moment reveals the disconnect between Vivian and her daughters. She has used the Salvations to find a sense of purpose and hope for herself. Her dream, however, has precluded her ability to see her daughters as distinct adults with dreams and desires of their own.

I don't know how much longer I can keep this going. I really don't.
-- Ruth (Part 1: Pages 1 - 62)

Importance: At the start of Ruth's section immediately following Vivian's section in Part 1, the narrator reveals...