The intricate tapestry of interconnected life stories in this novel is woven together by recurring themes, most notably the pervasive motif of paternal abandonment. This generational curse reverberates through the diaspora, creating a cycle of neglect and loss. Nash's experiences exemplify this pattern, as he finds no solace even in his surrogate father figure, Edward. Edward's negligence and failure to recognize Nash's silent cries for help lead to yet another chapter of abandonment, mirroring the failings of previous generations.

Even in the background, the novel’s minor characters are ensnared in similar narratives. Chester, Martha's lover, embodies this cycle of detachment, admitting to losing touch with his own children—a confession that echoes the broader theme of paternal absence. This systemic abandonment is contrasted with the different, yet equally profound, theme of maternal absence. While fathers disappear into the void, mothers are left to bear the emotional burden of separation.

Martha's open mourning for her lost daughter provides a poignant counterpoint to the traditional biblical lament, "Father, why hast Thou forsaken me?" Her grief is a visible, raw wound that contrasts sharply with Joyce’s more subdued sorrow. Joyce’s quiet despair hints at the unspoken stories of loss and longing that permeate the novel. These layered narratives create a complex portrayal of familial dissolution, highlighting the enduring impact of parental absence on the human psyche.

The recurring theme of the absent father is intertwined with the concept of dislocation, adding depth to the narrative. Each character meets their end not merely far from familiar surroundings but within an environment that feels foreign, culturally and physically alienating. Joyce's experience of dislocation is particularly unique. Unlike others who might face a physical separation from their homeland, Joyce undergoes an internal, psychological dislocation. Her mental landscape is distinct and isolated, marking a departure not just from geographic roots but also from the shared cultural and emotional experiences of those around her. This internal dislocation goes beyond mere English reserve; it signifies a profound divergence in her perception of the world, setting her apart in her own mental universe.

The narrative of Crossing the River unfolds a poignant message, woven with strands of hope tempered by the trials of life. At its heart, the characters Nash, Martha, and Travis, accompanied by Joyce, who becomes an honorary member of their journey, exemplify a unique form of triumph. Though each stands alone and often feels the weight of loss, they find solace and strength in the enduring human spirit. Their victories are not measured by conventional gains, but rather by their unwavering endurance and their bold capacity to embrace love, even when it courts peril. It is this resilient spirit that speaks to the enduring message of the story, where love becomes both a balm and a beacon amid life's tumultuous river crossings.