How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
We used to go everywhere together, my mother and I—visiting ancient temples, exploring local museums, watching Hindu festivals, staying up late to see the streets bloom with candlelight Now, she barely takes me on social calls. It's as if I'm a leper without a colony. (1.13)
Gemma's story begins like many teenagers': arguing with her mother. It seems like Gemma just really misses spending one-on-one time with her mom, so why does she treat her so badly when they are together?
Quote #2
I don't care if you come home at all. It was the last thing I'd said to her. Before I ran away. Before she came after me. Before I saw her die in a vision. […] And then the scream I've been holding back comes pouring out of me… (2.35)
This moment is the worst in Gemma's whole life, and she carries around the guilt of her words for a long time afterwards. This seems to show us how heavy and important words are and that we shouldn't say things that we don't mean—especially to those we love.
Quote #3
And when he couldn't sleep, he retired to his study and the laudanum bottle that had become his constant companion. Sometimes I'd find him asleep in his chair, the dogs at his feet, the brown bottle close at hand […] he'd grown thinner, whittled down by grief and opium. And I could only stand by, helpless and mute, the cause of it all. (3.8)
Not only does Gemma feel responsible for her mother's death, but she also feels responsible for her father's addiction and depression too. Is she really to blame for ruining her family?