Every single person had a unique voice and a story nobody else could tell.
-- Narration (chapter 1)

Importance: In some ways, this novel thematically focuses on the ideas of writing and storytelling. Additionally, the novel often has a bleak and cynical tone. The above line of narration relates to an idealistic idea to which Jacob attempts to aspire, but towards which he has become increasingly over the course of his stalled career.

All Jacob Finch Bonner had ever wanted was to be a writer.
-- Narration (chapter 1)

Importance: This line of narration reflects one of the most important character traits held by the protagonist. Jacob's greatest aspiration is to be a writer, and not only that, but to be a successful and respected writer. This monomaniacal ambition drives him to the morally dubious act of stealing Evan's plot idea, setting the rest of the story in motion.

This story will be read by everybody. It will make a...
-- Evan Parker (chapter 4)