The Satire of George
The novel begins by foreshadowing George Clare as the main suspect in his wife's death. The circumstances surrounding the brutal murder of Catherine all points to George, making readers vaguely conclude that he is the murderer. Paradoxically, George plays the victim, but his action to hit the road with his daughter the following day confirms that he had a hand in the death of his wife.
The paradox of marriage
Marriage is assumed to be ecstasy, but, paradoxically, the reality is different. The marriage between George and Catherine reveals that the couples are unhappy and frustrated. Similarly, Hale commits suicide after killing his wife due to marriage frustrations.
The Sardonic nature of fatherly figures
The two families presented in 'All Things Cease to Appear' sardonically bring forth abusive fathers doing exactly the opposite. The role of fathers is to love, protect and provide for their families. Ironically, the fathers presented are abusive and murderous.
The Satire of Catherine
The Ghosts warn Catherine that her life is in danger, but, ironically, she ignores taking action. The old farmhouse has a dark past because the initial inhabitants committed suicide. When Catherine fails to act first and save her life, she is brutally murdered.
