And then I understood that she had no idea what she'd done to my family. She thought love and hatred were equal.

Another world must surely exist somewhere one where she would be known in some deep way that was far beyond words.

Once you know some things, you can't unknow them. It's a burden that can never be given away.

The sky is already purple; the first few stars have appeared, suddenly, as if someone had thrown a handful of silver across the edge of the world.

Sally...can no longer think of love as a reality, or even as a possibility, however remote.

It was the sort of beauty you feel so deeply it becomes contagious and somehow makes you feel beautiful too.

Always keep mint on your windowsill in August, to ensure that buzzing flies will stay outside, where they belong. Don't think the summer is over, even when roses droop and turn brown and the stars shift position in the sky. Never presume August is a safe or reliable time of the year.