Something about the boy was no right, and this was at least something they could pity.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: This quote exemplifies Shuggie's uncanny ability to avoid the sexual advances made by the women from his work. The quote also suggests that Shuggie is homosexual. The fact that the women can "at least" pity him for this shows how the women look to find in Shuggie whatever scrap of emotional stimulation they can find.

Men were losing their very masculinity.
-- Narrator (chapter 3)

Importance: The loss of masculinity is the core problem that results from the loss of industrial jobs in Glasgow. Many of the problems embedded in the social fabric of Glasgow stem from the impact that job loss has on men. The idleness and poverty of men leads to the culture of violence, adultery, alcoholism, and abuse.

Her left hand worried her knife. She was caught between wanting to start a fight and stab him...
-- Narrator (chapter 8)