Modernity killed culture
One of the common motifs which can be found in the novel is the idea that modernity killed culture and that because of the modern advancements which appeared in society, culture is slowly starting to disappear. This idea is repeated on numerous times both by Joe and by Guinevere.
Proof that Beck was not attracted to Joe
One of the common motifs in the novel is the way through which Joe ignores time and time again the evidence which pointed out clearly Beck was not attracted to him in a sexual manner. These proofs are present from the beginning of the novel but no matter how frequent they appear, Joe continues to ignore them and to lie to himself Beck is in love with him.
Her gay friend
After Beck and Joe began to spend more time with one another, Joe realized that Beck not only was not attracted to him but she also saw him as her gay friend, someone who will never try to pursue a sexual relationship with her. The realization that Beck sees Joe as a homosexual becomes a common motif in the novel and is also used by Beck as an excuse to not give up her friendship with Joe.
Eliminating distractions
Another common motif in the novel is the way through which Joe feels the need to eliminate everything and anything who could be a distraction for Beck. Using this train of thought, Joe murders one of Beck’s close friends and also a man with whom she had a sexual relationship with. This motif is maintained until the end of the novel.
I am doing this for your own good
Another common motif in the novel is the way through which Joe claims everything he is doing is for Beck’s own good. This is another way through which Joe is rationalizing his actions and the way through which he avoids blaming himself for the pain he had caused.
