Coming of Age
The premise of the entire Lockwood and Co. series of novels is that children are the only people who can detect the presence of ghosts. As a result, the main cast of characters is teenagers. Part of the thematic foundation of the story is that innocence is lost forever as one age. The irony is that the young characters must submit themselves to the terrors of the horrors which comprise the narrative. As they age, these characters will eventually lose their ability to recognize these horrors. This twist on the coming-of-age theme is suggestive of the way that maturity also comes with a loss of imagination.
Acceptance of the Supernatural
One of the fascinating elements of the series is the way in which the existence of ghosts and other supernatural entities is a given. The existence of such things as the titular staircase itself and a disembodied skull are not presented as being within the realm of skepticism. The supernatural is accepted as just a normal—though often threatening—part of everyday existence. The theme which is being pursued here is almost religious in its undertones. Faith is not necessary to accept the existence of spectral entities. These beings are tangible and undeniable.
Teamwork
The spirit of competition is very much on display in the story in the form of competing psychic research agencies. Thematically speaking, it is not competition but collaboration which is presented as the key to success in going up against dangerous threats. The Lockwood agency—despite sporting the name of just one member—is comprised of three individuals who each bring their own specific strengths and weaknesses to the job. Their success is dependent upon an integration of these strengths. The success of the agency is demonstrated as resulting from the power of teamwork.
