The protagonist's name, "Dolores Claiborne," is aptly chosen. "Dolores" originates from the Latin word "dolor," meaning "to suffer," while "Claiborne," her maiden name, which she reclaims after Joe's death, comes from Old English, meaning "born of clay." These names emphasize her humble beginnings. The narrative unfolds as a story of hardship and vulnerability, or, as a recurring metaphor in the novel suggests, lives cast in shadow. Both Dolores and Vera are women who make tough choices, act on them, and bear the consequences.

Despite her challenging circumstances, Dolores's love for her children remains unwavering. In King's narratives, many characters experience a lack of parental affection because their parents are either absent or preoccupied with their own issues. Some endure madness and violence from parents who, in different ways, prioritize their own relentless desires over their children's needs. Dolores rises above her situation through a practical and enduring friendship with Vera Donovan. Their initial connection is based on their shared experiences as vigilant mothers managing destructive husbands.

When Dolores breaks down over Joe's abuse of Selena, Vera allows her to address her by her first name and makes a significant comment that unfortunate accidents can sometimes be a woman's best friend. Although they aren't particularly affectionate or open with each other, they have enough trust to consider murder together and share their deepest fears.