How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Of course, that's not the end of life upon the earth. We mustn't think that. There'll be life here in Melbourne long after we've gone." (8.62)
Well, that...doesn't make us feel better at all. While we're all big fans of our furry friends, we can't help but feel that earth will be a little lonely without humans trampling on its surface and polluting its oceans. Actually, now that we think about it, the earth might be better off.
Quote #8
The streets were dirty now and littered with paper and spoilt vegetables; it was evidently some days since the street cleaners had operated. (8.129)
As the end draws closer, the city itself seems to die. It's a prelude to the calamity that will strike Melbourne in a matter of days. But there's more: now that the prospect of death is real, everyone is now focused on making the most of what little time is left.
Quote #9
"After all, it's what we've always had to face, only we've never faced it, because we're young. Jennifer might always have died first, or the three of us, or I might have died before you." (8.185)
This is a bit hard to swallow, but it's the truth. There have always been accidents. There has always been sickness. There has always been death. Although Peter and Mary never have thought in a million years that they'd die from nuclear radiation, they always knew that they'd die sometime. Unless they happen to be vampires, of course—which, you know, would greatly alter our interpretation of the story.