“But if, sometimes, an unspeakable horror arises from the smallest error, I choose to believe that it’s possible for an equally unimaginable grandeur to grow from the tiniest gesture of love.”
The judge asserts the quotation when presiding over the case on the murder of Bashkim’s mother, which essentially encompasses the novel’s main theme. The recurrent nature of PTSD in terms of how the victim inflicts further trauma on others due to their disorder. In the narrative, the interconnected characters have past traumas that still affect them but some are willing to confront them and work on themselves. However, some are in denial of their ordeal and end up hurting others in the case of Nate who murders Bashkim’s mother. The interconnected narratives demonstrate how small acts of generosity go a long way and similarly how tiny mistakes can cause horrific consequences.
“I believe that coincidences can be powerful, Luis. I don’t think they’re entirely random, nor do I think that they must be acted on.”
Luis’ doctor further emphasizes the idea that certain gestures or happenings can sometimes be more than they seem. As a military veteran who suffers from PTSD and depression, Luis takes the initiative to go through therapy for his mental health. Moreover, he has a correspondence with his pen pal Bashkim that gives him a new outlook on life. Henceforth the idea of acting upon this connection seems worthwhile and could turn out to be a significant turning point.
