How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
Nick couldn't follow Alan up to Mum. She'd be upset for days if Nick actually went into her room. When she had her bad days, she needed the security of knowing that if she stayed in her room, she wouldn't have to see him. (3.26)
That's got to be a pretty horrible feeling: knowing that your presence will be so aggravating to someone that it will inhibit their health and well being. And when that person is your mother? Sheesh—we can't begin to imagine how many years of therapy it would take to deal with that burden.
Quote #5
Demons had to choose victims who were alone and unprotected, whose disappearance would not be noticed soon, and parents usually noticed rather quickly if a child disappeared or turned up possessed. (7.21)
Did you get that? In this book feeling isolated isn't just a major downer—it's downright dangerous. And actually, that might be true in life as well. People who are connected to others tend to live longer, happier, healthier lives, which means that demon attacks aren't the only health risks faced by people who are isolated.
Quote #6
"Oh, right," said Jamie. "Mae told me. Apparently you don't get scared."
"No," Nick said. "I don't. I don't waste my time with useless fussing around, feeling scared or anxious or what the hell it is you people do." (8.52-53)
Look closely at this quote. When individuals use the term "you people," they're generally referencing (in a derogatory manner) a group of folks from whom they consider themselves to be completely separate. But what particular group is Nick seen distancing himself from here? People who get scared? People who feel emotions? Or just… people in general?