By rendering traditional remedies for human isolation ineffective, O'Hara emphasizes the theme of fate. Julian, lacking the inner strength to restore his self-esteem, finds no purpose in life. Additionally, Julian believes that his destiny is partially dictated by heredity. In a society where individuals are highly aware of their lineage, especially their family's ascent to social prominence, Julian is aware that his grandfather ended his own life after embezzling funds from a bank. His father, Dr. English, who is conscious of their social standing, comforts himself after Julian's suicide by thinking that others "would see how the suicide strain has skipped one generation to come out in the next." The irony lies in the fact that Julian's sole "offense" was losing his temper at a country club event and throwing a drink in the face of someone he knew.