Irresponsible Parenting
The author figuratively uses Maureen Hamilton (Mungo's mother) to represent irresponsible parenting. After the death of her husband, Maureen is expected to be responsible and raise her boys by showing them, love. On the contrary, Maureen is an alcoholic, irresponsible, and not caring. Therefore, the boys lack a role model in their love, taking weird paths. For instance, Hamish becomes a criminal terrorizing the local people. On the other hand, Mungo becomes gay, and he feels lost due to his sexual identity because the act is considered immoral by the Church and the people.
Homosexuality
Homosexuality is symbolized by the sexual relationship between Mungo and James. Mungo does not feel attracted to the opposite sex, which applies to James. Therefore, these two boys find a similar sexual identity, and they start a sexual relationship. Mungo is thinking about how he will settle down with James in the future, but the real prospect is complex due to negative societal and religious perceptions toward homosexuality.
Religious Conflict
Religious conflict is epitomized by the conflicting ideologies between the Catholic Church and the Protestants. The paradox is that the two religions believe in one God, but they have contradicting principles that repel each other. The religious conflict between the Catholic Church and Protestants makes Mungo sad because it complicates his prospects.
