How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Section.Paragraph)
Quote #4
[To] Henry it seemed just an amusing interruption to their loneliness; the idea of chasing people away from a place that was nearly destitute of human beings already, seemed comical. (1.4.8.6)
Henry Solum thinks it's ridiculous when he and the Norwegian men chase a bunch of Irish people off their land. There is nothing but land in every direction. It's people who are rare out in these parts. And yet the greedy part of humanity always seems to win out in these moments. Sure, people want company. But they seem to want private property even more.
Quote #5
A feeling of unfathomable loneliness settled upon her. (1.5.1.13)
Now we're getting to the heart of things. Rölvaag spells it out to us in black and white terms when he talks about Beret's sense of isolation. She can try all she wants to distract herself. The fact remains that she feels totally alone on the prairies.
Quote #6
Beret must try to imagine how lonesome she was, sitting at home all alone with that useless husband of hers—and no little newcomer to wait for! (1.6.3.19)
Kjersti wants Beret to know that even though she's lonely, things could be worse. Kjersti, for example, is in the same situation. But she doesn't even have a child to keep her company.