Much of "The Silent Towns" deals with the theme of isolation and loneliness, but also weighs the merits of good companionship as Walter Gripp encounters Genevieve Selsor.  Although both Genevieve and Walter find themselves exceedingly lonely, they discover that perhaps isolation is preferable over being with someone annoying or dull.  On the topic of companionship, George Washington suggested that "it is better to be alone than in bad company." 

In the end, Walter and Genevieve both go their separate ways, preferring silence over any possible conversation that the other could provide.  Walter counts himself both blessed and relieved to be free of Genevieve, and the feeling was undoubtedly mutual.