We are all expatriate Americans: exiles.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: Amanda opens her narrative by defining herself and her friends, Catherine and Ernest Shuger, as expatriates and exiles. Although each of the characters has a distinct past and a distinct personality, Amanda unifies them via this shared trait of disconnection and displacement. The moment speaks to the ways in which, as Black American citizens, Amanda, Catherine, and Ernest all live with a sense of restlessness and unbelonging.

Like I said, you can't control the shit you dream.
-- Narrator (chapter 3)

Importance: At the start of the novel, Amanda speaks to the ways in which others regard her relationship with the Shugers. Many believe that Amanda is involved with Ernest sexually. Even Catherine at times suspects Amanda of being intimate with her husband. Although Amanda and Ernest are not involved, Amanda does often dream that they are. This moment reveals the ways in which Amanda's dreams offer her an...