Personal growth and redemption
The central theme of The Seventh Most Important Thing is redemption and personal growth, as depicted through the character of Arthur. After his father's death, Arthur acts out in anger and grief, hurling a brick at the Junk Man, leading to his sentence of community service. Arthur's journey from resentment and rebellion to understanding, empathy, and personal growth forms the narrative's core. Working with the Junk Man, Arthur learns to see beyond appearances and first impressions, a significant step towards personal maturity. His understanding of the value of the "junk" they collect evolves alongside his character, reflecting his inner transformation.
Art
Another important theme is the transformative power of art and the idea of perception. This theme is encapsulated in Junk Man's art project, which consists of discarded objects that most people overlook or consider worthless. Through the "Seven Most Important Things," readers see that things often hold value beyond what is apparent. Hampton's art installation, made from what most people perceive as trash, is a metaphor for looking beyond surface appearances to find hidden value or beauty. It encourages readers to reconsider their understanding and perception of their surroundings, emphasizing the subjective nature of value and beauty.
Empathy
A significant theme that unfolds in The Seventh Most Important Thing is the theme of empathy. Initially, Arthur cannot understand why the Junk Man collects what seems to be useless objects. His viewpoint is confined to his own experiences and interpretations of value. However, as Arthur spends more time with Hampton, he begins to perceive the world from a different perspective, specifically from Hampton's viewpoint. This ability to empathize profoundly transforms Arthur's understanding of people and the world around him.
Arthur's initial impression of Hampton is based purely on surface appearances and societal prejudices, viewing him as a ragged older man who collects junk. Yet, as he gets to know Hampton better, Arthur realizes the depth of the man's character and the value in the things he collects. This understanding helps Arthur see past Hampton's ragged exterior to the dedicated artist beneath. This shift in perception from dismissal to understanding underscores the importance of empathy and its impact on personal growth and relationships.
