“Everyone who’d lost something of crucial importance wished he or she could go back to the moment when it was still theirs. The wish was so powerful it seemed it might reverse the direction of time. It bore apparitions and ghosts.”
The statement affirms the common desire of many people to go back in time and reclaim something that was lost. The idea of being able to reverse the direction of time is a powerful one, and it conjures up images of apparitions and ghosts - symbols of the past that haunt us, reminding us of what once was. This sentiment resonates with the themes explored in the narrative, particularly concerning the main characters Agnes and Polly's longing for a time when their lives were simpler and more carefree. Both women have endured hardships throughout their lives, such as making choices that have held them back or having loved ones pass away. Their shared wish to go back in time and reclaim what has been lost is an idea that is deeply rooted in nostalgia, which is an integral part of the book's narrative. Furthermore, this quote reflects the novel's overall message about cherishing every moment, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem at first glance.
“Marriage should be a long conversation leading to freedom.”
The quote highlights the importance of communication and mutual understanding in a marriage. It implies that when couples speak freely and honestly with each other, their relationship is more likely to lead toward a sense of liberation. It suggests that marriage should be a journey to freedom, rather than just an arrangement of convenience or obligation. This idea implies that both partners in a relationship should be willing to go beyond their comfort zones to explore new possibilities. In Agnes and Polly's case, this idea is explored in depth through their decades-long friendship. We see how Agnes continually challenges Polly and encourages her to make decisions that will give her greater autonomy from her husband Dick; while at the same time, we also see how Polly struggles with guilt over the thought of leaving her husband, even though she knows it would be best for both of them. In the end, it is only through honest conversations that Agnes and Polly work through all the complexities of their relationship and reach a resolution. The quote, therefore, suggests that when couples are willing to open up to one another and engage with each other's perspectives, they can find freedom within their marriage.
“But there was a last time. An unforeseen and uncommemorated last time. I don’t remember it. That, more than anything, describes aging to me—the letting go of one activity after the next, with no fanfare. Just realizing later that the last time has come and gone.”
This quote demonstrates the realities of aging and the way that life inevitably moves on without fanfare or ceremony. As we age, we let go of activities and moments without noticing they are gone until they are in hindsight. This is a common subject featured in the story as both Agnes and Polly grapple with their advancing years. Through Agnes and Polly, the book examines how their lives have changed over time, how their relationships have grown and shifted, and how they deal with the inevitable process of aging. The quote suggests that life is fleeting and that our mortality should be taken into consideration when making decisions about our futures. It also speaks to the idea that acknowledging these losses can help us to appreciate what we still have and make peace with what has already passed. As Agnes and Polly reflect on their lives, they are forced to confront their pasts and reckon with experiences that shaped who they are today.
