Drug Addiction
Kenneth M. Cadow’s first theme in the novel Gather is drug addiction. As the novel opens, Ian's mother is hospitalized because she suffers from opioid addiction. The consequences of drug addiction are explored in the novel. For instance, Ian's mother is dependent on opioids and cannot engage in any economic activity because her health is deteriorating. Secondly, drug addiction causes anxiety in the family. Ian and his aunt are worried about his mother's recovery process. Similarly, drug addiction causes a financial constraint in the family. Ian is forced to look for jobs to care for his mother and ensure that he holds the family together.
Coming of Age
Coming of age is another significant theme in the novel. Cadow follows the life of Ian from a young boy to maturity. Young adults face several challenges as they mature. For instance, Ian looks for friendship, which he finds when he adopts Gather. Similarly, as a young man, Ian takes the responsibility of caring for his addicted mother and supports his family financially. Additionally, growing up with a mother who abuses drugs is difficult for Ian because he might fall into a similar trap. Fortunately, Ian maneuvers throughout his youth and learns to avoid drug addiction.
The worth of community
The value of the community is another important theme in the novel. Ian lives in harmony with his neighbors. When Ian's dog, Gather, gets lost, the community quickly agrees to help him. The support Ian receives from the community is priceless. Cadow uses this theme to show readers the significance of appreciating people and always doing good deeds for others.
