One of the novel's most important yet understated themes is the need to look toward the future. This doesn't mean that Walker undervalues the importance of one's ethnic, racial, or familial background. In fact, in her essay “In Search of Our Mother's Gardens” (1983), she stresses that one's heritage should be reclaimed and celebrated. However, Walker believes that dwelling too much on the past is counterproductive. Celie's transformation into a self-assured, appealing woman occurs because she embraces the possibility of a new relationship with Shug, moves to Memphis, and starts her own pantmaking business. Even her former husband, Albert, doesn't recognize Celie when she comes back to town. Similarly, Nettie, who might have become another victim of Alphonso's sexual abuse, blossoms into an articulate, content missionary in Africa. While it's true that these transformations can sometimes feel improbable, since Walker heavily depends on coincidence to advance character development and plot, she underscores that bravery, education (whether formal or informal), and optimism about the future are essential for finding happiness.