How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
NASA, however, is absolutely shitting itself [...] To them, equipment failure is terrifying. To me, it's "Tuesday." (13.57)
What a difference a few months make. Do you remember how frightened Mark was on Day 1 of this ordeal? Look at him now! This passage shows us that courage isn't about not feeling fear—it's about learning to manage it.
Quote #5
"Iris 2 only risks one life. Rich Purnell risks all six of them. I know Rich Purnell is more likely to work, but I don't think it's six times more likely." (16.193)
When we first read this, we took Mitch's side: Teddy is way too afraid of taking risks. The more we thought about it, however, the more we warmed to Teddy's perspective. We still think that the Rich Purnell Maneuver was a good idea, but we understand why Teddy is so timid. If anything goes wrong—either way—Teddy will be the one held responsible.
Quote #6
The worst moments in life are heralded by small observations. The tiny lump on your side that wasn't there before. Coming home [...] and seeing two wineglasses in the sink. (17.97)
Although Mark has gotten used to living in fear, he hasn't exactly transformed into Braveheart. The fact of the matter is that something could go disastrously wrong in an instant, and Mark needs to be vigilant to prevent that from happening. While good, that sort of attention is going to drive you crazy at some point.