The way she carries herself and the way she dresses won't leave a strong impression on anyone.
-- Narrator (Pages 11 - 48)

Importance: When the narrator first introduces Hornclaw's character, she magnifies Hornclaw's invisibility in the public sphere. Hornclaw is 65 years old, but she looks as if she could be 80. The narrator therefore remarks that she is seen as disposable and worthless to others. Her age, her manner, and her nondescript attire amplify her insignificance. This moment therefore introduces the reader to the author's explorations concerning aging and invisibility. Hornclaw's societal status also makes her a perfect assassin, a facet of her identity the narrator reveals shortly after this moment.

What gets in the way of safe retirement is the unique nature of disease control.
-- Narrator (Pages 11 - 48)

Importance: Although Hornclaw is of retirement age, she cannot bring herself to leave her job with the disease control agency. In this passage, the narrator explains why. She goes on to remark...