“See? They’re very curious when they’re young. When he gets older, though, he’ll be suspicious and bad-tempered.” 

This piece of dialogue comes from Kate’s memory of Matt pointing out snapping turtles in one of the ponds. This passage introduces Matt’s role as Kate’s inspiration and teacher, and it also hints at one of the themes of the novel: the passage of time, and how attitudes and willingness to learn change as individuals age.

“Understatement was the rule in our house. Emotions, even positive ones, were kept firmly under control. It was the Eleventh Commandment, carved on its very own tablet of stone and presented specifically to those of Presbyterian persuasion: Thou Shalt Not Emote.”

As a young child, Kate is already conscious of certain expectations in her family and community. Crow Lake is primarily Presbyterian (the exception being Mrs. Stanovich), and the local culture is one of restraint. This influence will continue to pose issues for Kate, as she has difficulty expressing her feelings clearly to Daniel. By the end of the novel she has gradually started to undo this attitude, opening up to Daniel and hugging her siblings (something they never did as children). 

“I remember being terrified that he would cry. His voice was shaking, and he was struggling very hard with himself, and I remember being rigid with fear, not daring to look at him, scarcely daring to breathe. As if that would be the worst thing; much worse than this incomprehensible thing he was telling he. As if for Matt to cry was the one unthinkable thing.” 

Matt is the one to tell Kate that their parents have died, and her immediate reaction is terror that he himself seems so upset. This passage demonstrates three things: that Kate is paralyzed with terror at her parents’ death; that the Morrisons are typically so studiously non-emotive, it’s remarkable and distressing for Matt to show his own fear and grief; and that Kate relies hugely on Matt to keep her feeling steady and safe.