How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Chauncey stepped easily over the sunken graves and humus of the cemetery; even in the thickest fog he could find his way home from here and not fear getting lost. (P.2)
Setting an early scene in the book in a cemetery is a pretty good clue that life and death will be at issue. Chauncey's comfort in such a setting doesn't exactly bode well for him being a harmless dude.
Quote #2
'Where's dad?'
'My dad passed away last year.'
'How did he die?'
I flinched. 'He was murdered.' (1.85-88)
This novel doesn't shy away from death, and yet Nora doesn't provide many details about her father's death or how she feels about it. Instead she avoids discussing it early on in the book.
Quote #3
It was too late. The car swerved to the right. I felt a jolt of panic, and then it happened. My left shoulder slammed against the car door. It flung open, and I was ripped out of the car while the roller coaster sped off without me. I rolled onto the tracks and grappled for something to anchor myself. My hands found nothing, and I tumbled over the edge, plunging straight down through the black air. The ground rushed up at me, and I opened my mouth to scream. (8.74)
Here we have one of many brushes with death. As much as Nora tries to avoid talking about death, it seems like she will have to face up to the issue at some point. Death just won't leave her alone.