Technology and time
This novel has been called Steampunk, which means that it confuses various aspects of multiple parts of time. In this story, an early historical attempt at a calculating engine in Britain actually successful, such that the technology boom that has defined recent history actually happens about a century earlier. This leads to a thematic discussion of technology and how it shapes history in time, because as the characters navigate various changes in their lives, the reader can see the shape of technology's effect—especially the invention of the computer.
Power and economy
As fast as the technology changes, so also the economy changes. This continues happening until finally the monarchy and court are basically removed from power. Now, the power in the novel is wielded by whoever understands technology best. This is like a thematic commentary on the modern day economic situation caused by computers and technology. The person who makes the next ubiquitous "app" has more power than many monarchies. This shift in power is portrayed thematically in the plot as Sybil adjusts to the new economy.
Corruption and chaos
Through the rapid changes, various establishments lose their authority, leading to a chaotic future. There are elements of this novel that seem almost post-apocalyptic, but this is merely the reality that fast changes in societies are often unpredictable in their effect. The unpredictability leads to a "Wild West" kind of atmosphere, because even the power of the government must adjust. This is shown in the novel through the various corruptions in government and the conspiracies among the characters to remove people from power who ought not to be there.
