Masculinity
A common theme linked with the clack men is the idea that they have to prove their worth and masculinity through other means. Joe Pittman for example, breaks horses in an attempt to prove his masculinity. Fertility is also linked with the idea of masculinity and since Joe and Jane are unable to conceive children, Joe concentrates his efforts on horses.
Defiance
Jane’s defiance is another theme in the novel. From the beginning, it becomes clear that Jane will refuse to give up and will continue to hope for better things in her life no matter what. Jane pursues her dreams stubbornly and refuses to accept the idea of safety in the detriment of freedom. Despite all the hardship in her life, Jane will continue to follow her dreams and this will keep her alive.
Racism
Racism is the major theme in the novel because of the time when the novel takes place. The action describes in the novel begins shortly after the end of the Civil War and the beginning of a new era without slavery. But the transition from slavery to freedom was not an easy one and many problems appeared as a result. Racism was something that existed during the slave period as well and the white community believed that they are superior just because of their skin color. This belief made them think that it is normal to be violent towards black people and to consider then as being almost animals. Even though slavery was supposed to end after the civil war, the reality is completely different and racism and slavery remains widespread.
