The paradox of homosexuality
Almost half of the citizens' preference for same-sex relationships after the 'Free States' independence is paradoxical. Before the independence of gay marriage, people in same-sex relationships faced stigma. The overwhelming shift from heterosexuality to homosexuality contradicts the expectations of readers. The main paradox is that people in same-sex relationships still expect children.
The irony of Kawika
The second part of the book provides the satire of David’s ambitions of being King Kawika of the throne that does not exist. David finds himself in the middle of the dark history of America during the annexation of Hawaii, and that denies him an opportunity of being a king. The satire of Kawika illustrates the dreams that were killed by the inception of capitalism.
The illogicality of the future
Based on the current developments, the reader expects the future to be brighter with more advancements in technology and freedom. Ironically, the third part of the novel depicts the opposite. Between the 2070s and 2090s, the world is ruthlessly ruled by China from Beijing. Charlie is a resident of Washington in the year 2090, and she informs readers that Beijing rules with an iron fist. For instance, people cannot read books, watch the news or use the internet. The police closely monitor the people using the insect drones.
