How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
At that instant the TV clicked on. […] Shots rang out and music blared; we all flinched like nervous chihuahuas. […] For some reason, however, that blast of noise had broken the spell cast by such a creepy, all-encompassing silence. We felt safer, and more courageous. (2.63-64)
Entering Casimir's dark and silent apartment is pretty freaky. No one knows who or what they'll find. But for whatever reason, the noise of the abruptly turned-on TV helps everyone feel safer and braver. If that's not a comment about how much we rely on television for comfort in our society, we don't know what is.
Quote #2
Like Zadia Bloodstone, I summoned up all my failing strength and prepared to do battle. Only I wasn't wrestling with a drug cartel or a protection racket.
I was fighting the infection in my veins. (6.70-71)
Nina is no stranger to bravery—she invented Zadia Bloodstone, after all, who's one brave chick. But in her own life, she tends to take the path of least resistance (and of most cowardice). Until now. Sick of being scared and passive, Nina decides to go on the road trip to Cobar to try to track down Casimir's killer.
Quote #3
"Even if I do get shot, it won't be fatal. You're the one who has to watch out, not me." This was a typical Zadia Bloodstone remark […] But the fact is, I couldn't say it like Zadia Bloodstone. My voice trembled as I thought about copping a bullet in the gut. (12.63-64)
Here, Nina tries to reassure Father Ramon that even though they're being held captive by the gun-crazy McKinnons, she can get shot and be okay. And while it's a Zadia-style courageous thing to say, Nina has to admit to herself that she's totally freaked out. She wants to be brave like Zadia, but the thought of getting shot is really scary.