How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
When a person has already seen Death—seen it once, at least—you'd think she'd remember whose shoulder it had been sitting on. But this particular person did not. (5.143)
Here's one of the first examples of Briony's confusion (which leads to our confusion) when it comes to her memory. Though many of the things she has trouble remembering happened within the past few years, Briony does not seem to think this weird. Why do you think her past few years are so fuzzy and confused?
Quote #2
You can outrun your memories, but sometime, you will have to stop. And when you do, there will always be Stepmother, waiting to be remembered. (11.63)
What does it mean when you block out memories of a specific person? Usually not anything good. Nearly all of Briony's memories seem to be linked to or influenced by her stepmother, and this is especially the case when it comes to her guiltiest and most painful memories.
Quote #3
"Do you want the version of the story in which I'm a hero, or do you want the true version?"
"Both," said Eldric. (12.92-93)
What a weird thing to say, Briony—most people prefer the truth. Still, Briony mentions versions of stories because she believes there is a true version and a version she tells people to protect herself.