Betrayal
In this novel, which serves a primary function of building tension in anticipation of the epic showdown of the last two novels, there is a major theme of betrayal and changes of loyalty. Many characters, including Chief Davis of the police force, betray their organizations and friends for pay from the Elgen. Dr. Hatch takes over the island of Tuvalu, and except for the prime minister, all of the officials and dignitaries swear their allegiance to Hatch, earning accusations of betrayal from the Tuvaluan people. Quentin and Tara betray Dr. Hatch by rescuing Welch, and Hatch turns against them, building up to a war between Hatch and his once-loyal Glows.
Safety in Illusion
In multiple instances during the novel, good characters save their lives by stealthily evacuating before destruction. Timepiece Ranch, destroyed by the Elgen, was actually evacuated but gave no appearance of being so; the resistance had fled and was safely relocated. In a similar scene, Gervaso and the Electroclan help Mr. and Mrs. Ridley to fake their own deaths by an illusion; they escape their car when the police can't see them and then blow it up, presenting the illusion that they perished in the flames.
Secrecy
Secrecy is another major theme of the novel. In the beginning, the voice tells the Electroclan that there were no survivors of the attack on the ranch. They come to discover that there were no survivors because there was no one there in the first place. This intentional employment of "misinformation" is a thematic tactic; it served a strategic purpose to withhold that critical information. This secrecy, also evident in Gervaso's disguise and the mysterious organization at the end, characterizes the novel.
Morality vs Amorality
As in previous novels, the Electroclan and the Resistance represent a foundation of morality that is attempting to stop the spreading wave of moral anarchy propounded by Dr. Hatch and his philosophy. Dr. Hatch has no belief in any kind of moral structure; "might is right," in his view, and moral issues get thrown out the window in favor of pragmatic strategy. The Electroclan, in opposition, come to light as saviors of morality in a world of increasing amoral dominance.
