“Just like in nature, the prettiest things are often the most poisonous.”

This quote highlights a central concept of the novel and foreshadows the thematic importance of The Healing Power of the Arts, given that Lark actively creates art from her most violent and destructive impulses. The quote also sets the ominous tone of the novel and indicates the constant juxtaposition of images and actions that are at once emotionally tender and ethically abhorrent.

“I leave Leander behind. But I know I’ll never really get away.”

The bleak desperation in Lachlan’s tone highlights the many ways in which his past actions have created a metaphorical cage from which he sees no escape. This quote also serves as an oblique reference to a primary conflict within the novel: the fact that Lachlan has been forced into Leander’s service against his will. He is unable to retire because he ruined a contract with Lark’s family, the Covacis, by treating Lark roughly and violently during their first meeting.

“Even after the conversation takes other turns, that feeling stays with me. It’s like there’s a thin thread binding us together. And as Lark seizes the opportunity to slip away to the balcony when she seems to think her absence won’t be noticed, that connection tugs at my chest. Though I spend a few minutes trying to snip it free, it still pulls, and it doesn’t loosen even after I follow.”

The complex emotional connections articulated in this quote introduce the novel’s first hints of The Transformative Power of Love and Forgiveness. Even in this early chapter, Lachlan is drawn to Lark almost against his will, and he feels connected to her even though she is a stranger.