The paradox of love
The paradox of love is rampant throughout the novel. Hedley's love story is ironic because Lina realizes she has several lovers when reading her journal, but she does not specify the man who impregnated her. Howard still loves Hadley despite parting ways before Lina was born.
Lina's love story is also complex. Lina meets Ren and falls in love with him, but she realizes he is dating another girlfriend. When Lina kisses Ren, she feels strong love for him, but she lies that he is just a friend to her. Ren walks away disappointed after learning that Lina does not have special feelings for him. Therefore, love emerges as a paradox that no one comprehends in the novel.
The satire of Hadley’s journal
When Lina arrives in Italy, she receives her mother's journal from Sonia, and she believes that she will get all answers to her questions. Lina reads the journal thoughtfully with the help of Ren, hoping to know her biological father. Lina reveals that her mother was with Matteo while pregnant and thinks he is her biological father. Lina meets Matteo physically to confirm if he is her biological father. Paradoxically, Matteo denies the claims arguing that Lina does not have his DNA. Similarly, Howard tells Lina that he is not her biological father. Therefore, reading the journal proves meaningless to Lina, and she decides to live one day at a time.
Hadley’s wish
Hadley has incurable cancer, and she will die soon. She asks her daughter to leave her and travel to Italy to look for Howard. Lina is confused about whether go to Italy or remain with her mother. Paradoxically, Lina leaves for Italy, leaving her dying mother alone instead of remaining adamant about caring for her until she dies. While in Italy, Lina learns of her mother's death, and she decides to move on with her life.
