A major theme of the novel revolves around Charlie's quest to understand and come to terms with those who have caused him pain throughout his life: his mother, who abused him both physically and emotionally; his father, who failed to protect him; his coworkers at the bakery, who mistreated him; and the scientists who enhanced his intelligence but treated him merely as a test subject. It is significant that when Charlie discovers the effects of the operation are temporary, his main objective becomes finding his family and making peace with them. Upon locating his mother, he tells himself, "I must understand the way she saw it. Unless I forgive her, I will have nothing." The sadness of Charlie's regression from genius is somewhat eased by his reconciliation with those who wronged him. In his final progress report, he writes, "If they make fun of you dont get sore because you remember their not so smart like you once thot they were."