“They were nothing more than people, by themselves. Even paired, any pairing, they would have been nothing more than people by themselves. But all together, they have become the heart and muscles and mind of something perilous and new, something strange and growing and great.

Together, all together, they are the instruments of change.” 

This passage encapsulates one of the book’s main messages. The author implies that social change can only happen when all elements of society come together voluntarily and begin perceiving each other as family members rather than strangers. Such a view of postcolonial cultures is rather unusual, as normally it seems impossible to overcome the traumatic events of the past. However, Hulme demonstrates through her three unorthodox protagonists that in merging disparate elements, it is possible to find new ways of coexistence.

“Nasty. Gnomish, thinks Kerewin. The shock of surprise is going and cold cutting anger comes sweeping in to take its place.

‘What are you doing here? Aside from climbing walls?’

There is something distinctly unnatural about it. it stands there unmoving, sullen and silent.” 

This passage describes Kerewin and Simon’s first meeting. This is also the first time the artist displays her angry side, which can easily become vicious and biting. She calls Simon “nasty,” revealing her dislike of, or at least disinterest in, children. While they might be surprised or shocked, most people would probably not react so strongly and negatively to finding a child in their home, especially during a storm. Additionally, Kerewin attempts to distance herself from Simon by thinking of him as an “it,” a creature, rather than another human being.

“None of my business, I know, but it’s a little unusual to find the matter treated rationally. Most parents I’ve had the misfortune to meet don’t think about it at all. They instantly assume if their young kid smokes, it’s wrong. Doesn’t matter if they smoke themselves—watch out, kid! A good example of how parents in our society tend easily to tyranny—I shall make or mould my child as I see fit, without too much reference to the developing personality or needs of the child.” 

Kerewin makes this observation after her first dinner at Joe’s house when she sees Simon smoking in the presence of his foster father. Joe’s rationale for allowing it is that the boy does not actually inhale the smoke, but simply likes to pretend to be an adult.