There are a handful of central themes in this novel.

Sexuality. At the heart of this story is sexuality. Each character is coming to terms with the exciting, but sad loss of their innocence. For Philippe it is a question of experience and desire over love. For Vinca it is a question of love and loyalty. The two characters fall in love at a young age. However, desire and opportunities get in the way. The fissure in their relationship is Philippe’s affair with an older woman. Vinca is left to pick up the pieces of her heartbreak. The two grow from childhood love, then lust, and then loss.

Coming of age. Hand in hand with sexuality is the characters’ coming-of-age story. As they discover and make sense of their sexualities, the two grow from children to adults. Sexuality is the conduit through which they mature.

Innocence. At the start of the story each character maintains their innocence. Philippe’s is lost when he has an affair with Madame Dalleray. She is written as the antithesis of innocence. She is seductive and mature. She wears bright colors and makeup. Even more so, she flaunts her sexuality. Vinca is written to be all things innocent. She is soft and gentle. Her innocence is lost when she learns of Philippe’s affair. She is caught in the turmoil of this loss and must decide whether or not to move on from it.