How we cite our quotes: Chapter.Paragraph
Quote #1
I'd know her head anywhere.
And what's inside it. I think of that, too: her mind. Her brain, all those coils, and her thoughts shuttling through those coils like fast, frantic centipedes. Like a child, I picture opening her skull, unspooling her thoughts. (1.2-3)
And that, Shmoopsters, is how you open a novel about a guy married to the Queen of Mind Games. Let's just stop a minute and appreciate how disturbing this image is: Amy is so complex that to completely understand her would require opening up her brain and dismantling it. Dude. That's just nuts.
Quote #2
Marybeth starts the pitch: "We wanted to ask if we could borrow some money from your trust while we figure out what to do with the rest of our lives." (12.37)
Imagine having your parents come over for a visit… to ask you for money. When you and your partner have both lost your jobs. It's not exactly the greatest timing, and the fact that Amy's parents are in control of Amy's money makes the whole encounter even more awkward and manipulative. The control her parents have over her is obvious when Nick tries to interrupt so they can talk the decision over—instead of responding to his request, she gives in to their demands.
Quote #3
I know sometimes you think you are moving through this world alone, unseen, unnoticed. But don't believe that for a second. I have made a study of you. I know what you are going to do before you do it. I know where you've been and I know where you're going. For this anniversary, I've arranged a trip: Follow your beloved river, up up up! (31.25)
In Amy's final treasure hunt note to Nick, she puts into words the manipulative power she's used to build her plot. She's not just a scorned woman, she's a stalker. Studying someone, following him, and investigating his every move are the definition of gathering evidence to control someone.