Racism
Sadly, racism has always been a problem and it is impossible to predict when it ceases. Although the story describes events which happen in 1915, which is not so long ago, the racism of that time is rather strong. Rufus has to deal with constant teasing because of his “nigger’s name” and learns that there is a border between white people and “colored people”. Rufus’s family differs from the rest of the society because of their progressive views on the problem of racism, but it also means that they themselves can become objects of constant gossiping.
Alcoholism
Jay Follet suffers from alcoholism, but manages to keep his addiction under control for his family’s sake. However, the novel also contains an example where an addiction wins. Uncle Ralph doesn’t only drink heavily, he also starts valuing alcohol more than his family. Everything is ruled by his uncontrollable love for it. As a result, he proves to be a useless husband and even more terrible father. The novel shows how destructive any addiction could be.
Atheism
Atheism is, paradoxically, also a certain type of a religion. Where Christians believe in God, atheists believe in mind and science. These beliefs can coexist peacefully, if people try to respect each other’s opinions. This is how Mary and Jay do. Being a devoted Catholic woman, she explains everything from the point of view of religious dogma and Jay accepts it. But this is a rather rare case. For instance, Father Jackson is a perfect example of religious intolerance. This injustice and an inability to accept other people’s way of thinking constantly irritate the characters of the story.
Religiousness
Mary’s religiousness unnerves her father and brother to an inexplicable extent. Jay finds such a devotion to be slightly amusing. However, Catholicism is a meaningful part of her life. Her strong faith even gives her strengths to accept Jay’s death, because she believes it to be a certain test. Mary’s case is evidence that every person needs something to believe in, so that he/she could rely on those beliefs in times of need and struggles.
Hypocrisy
Father Jackson is supposed to have all qualities of a genuine Christian. These are forgiveness, kindness and love. But it seems that he has none of them: he is vain, intolerant, and unforgivable, but still he is a priest, a person who should be compassionate. Being deprived of all above mentioned positive qualities, he is an example of hypocrisy which exists in our society. He forgets his flaws in himself, but doesn’t forgive them in others.
Family relationships
This novel is not only about a tragedy of unexpected death, but also about family relationships. When Jay dies, it is her family, who does everything possible in order to reduce her problems, taking care about children and household. In spite of differences between them, they are all members of one family, which is united with mutual love and respect.
