Elaine’s Reviews > When the Cranes Fly South > Status Update

“For a moment, I imagine what it would be like if I were the one up at the microphone, but no one thought to ask. The people in my life don't count on me anymore, and they're right not to, because my body isn't up to it.”

“My ears strain for the sound of claws on the floor, for a soft yawn. For the sound of your knitting needles, gently clicking together. But all I can hear is the hum of the fridge and the ticking of the clock.”

“Someone else will take care of Sixten. Someone other than me. But I'm the only one who knows how he likes his ears squeezed.”

"How can it be better for me when it's not what I want?"

p108: “As I make my way into the kitchen, I spot the pictures of Ellinor that I meant to give Hans. The driveway is empty, and I briety debate taking out my phone to give him a ring (…) That could be a while, and I don't want to leave the pictures lying on the table where I might spill food or coffee on them. I hold them in my hands for a moment, then take them through to your old bed in the bedroom instead.”

p74: “As ever, I'm not hungry, but I say yes anyway. Sweet things are the only foods that still taste more or less like they used to.”