Trauma and Abuse
The theme of trauma and abuse is addressed in a variety of ways. Both Lily and her mother have been victims of domestic violence, which has had long-term consequences in their lives. Lily's father is never held accountable for his actions, and the narrative implies that this is all too common in domestic abuse cases. Lily's trauma is explored further through her relationship with Ryle. Even though Ryle is not a perpetrator of domestic violence, Lily's traumatic experience with her father influences her reaction to Ryle's behavior and her expectations of him. Throughout the novel, Lily must confront her trauma and come to terms with the consequences. She is eventually able to break the cycle of abuse and start a new life with Atlas. Lily's ability to break free from the cycle of abuse and create a better life for herself and her daughter is a testament to her strength and courage.
The Power of Love
As she navigates the difficulties of her past and present, Lily finds strength in love—both romantic and platonic. Her relationships with Atlas, her mother, and Ryle are all crucial to her healing and self-discovery. She is able to forgive her father and accept the wrongs he has done not because of her strength, but because of the love of those around her. She learns to accept that some people are capable of both good and evil through her relationships, and she discovers that love can exist even in the face of pain and suffering. Lily's love for Atlas, which she had been denying for so long, is ultimately what gives her the courage to leave Ryle and begin a new life with Emmy. As a result, the novel serves as a reminder that love can be a powerful force for both healing and transformation.
Forgiveness
Lily is initially consumed by her father's anger and resentment, and she struggles to forgive him for his abuse. Only by reading her childhood diaries is she able to reconcile with her past and forgive her father. Ryle must also learn to forgive himself for his brother Emerson's untimely death. Lily is able to empathize with Ryle and forgive him for his behavior after discovering his secret. When Lily finally decides to leave Ryle, she is motivated by a desire to break the cycle of abuse and ensure that her daughter does not suffer the same trauma. Finally, Lily is able to forgive Atlas for failing to keep his promise to her, allowing her to be with him in the future. The novel explores the power of forgiveness and how it can be a source of strength and healing through these characters.
The Complexity of Relationships
The theme of the complexity of relationships is explored through the relationships of Lily and her father, Lily and Ryle, Lily and Atlas, and Lily and her mother. Because of her father's abusive behavior, Lily's relationship with him is complicated and tumultuous, but she still loves and respects him. Her marriage to Ryle is also complicated, as it is both passionate and toxic. Lily and Atlas have a complicated relationship history as well, as they both have unresolved feelings for each other but are aware that their relationship is not viable. Finally, Lily's relationship with her mother is complicated, as Lily struggles to understand her mother's decision to stay with Lily's father despite the abuse. These relationships all demonstrate the complexity of relationships, as they are all filled with love, pain, and confusion.
Growth and Change
Lily moves from Boston to Maine and then back to Boston, changing from a student to a businesswoman and from a victim to a survivor of abuse. At the same time, she relearns to believe in love and relationships. Lily and Ryle's relationship progresses from a one-night stand to dating, marriage, and divorce. She learns to forgive her past and move forward through her relationship with Atlas. Ryle develops as well, from a man who cannot trust in love to a man who accepts and loves Lily and their daughter unconditionally. Finally, Lily's mother transforms from a woman who accepted a lifetime of abuse to one who is proud of her daughter's courage in finally leaving her abuser. Together, these characters and their stories illustrate the power of growth and change.
