In many of Updike's lengthy novels, including The Witches of Eastwick, the themes of an individual's quest to comprehend their place in the universe and the meaning of life are central. Lacking the comforts that a conventional lifestyle provides, the three main characters are driven to seek purpose within themselves and through their relationships with one another. Without delving deeply into philosophical discourse, Updike places these heroines in scenarios that compel them to question their identities as women and mothers. Each character encounters personal tragedy, prompting all three to ponder the transient nature of life. Their fertility and strong sexual desires also carry metaphysical undertones: as they engage in activities that can lead to procreation, they are reminded that their children represent a new generation destined to succeed them. The presence of illness in their community—one of the witches is seemingly afflicted with cancer—further encourages them to reflect on their own mortality.

Another major theme in the novel is the timeless battle between good and evil. Situated in a New England town, a place historically associated with witch trials, Updike delves into the clash between established religion and the occult. Although Updike criticizes the hypocrisy found in traditional religion, he clearly implies that the deeds of Darryl Van Home, a character who serves as a thinly disguised representation of the Devil, are inherently destructive. Updike explores how malevolent forces can permeate a community like Eastwick, where the inhabitants focus on outward moral standards rather than embodying true Christian values.

A third theme, closely tied to the social customs of Eastwick and modern America, explores the role of women in a society dominated by men. Similar to many authors from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Updike is intrigued by women's pursuit of identity and self-respect in communities where men have traditionally established the behavior norms and values by which individuals are judged. Although he is not a feminist, Updike demonstrates a clear empathy for the struggles faced by his three heroines as they seek recognition as valuable members of their society. While the latter part of the twentieth century has brought more attention to this persistent issue in contemporary awareness, Updike acknowledges that the challenges women face in achieving equality with men, both socially and morally, have been present throughout Western civilization. The heroines' defiance of societal norms is not simply a lack of moral willpower; instead, it is a conscious act of rebellion against standards that have prevented women from reaching their full potential in a culture that often perceives them merely as objects for men's enjoyment.

Although not as prominent as some other themes, Updike explores the influence of art. Each of the three witches showcases a type of artistic skill. Together, they embody the primary forms of artistic expression: visual, musical, and literary arts. At first, they use their talents for positive purposes, with two even trying to earn a living through their art. However, by the end of the novel, they all channel their artistic skills into practicing magic. The link between art and magic is an age-old idea, and the belief that artists hold special powers has been favored in literary circles since the Romantic period of the late 1700s. Characters such as Shakespeare's Prospero in The Tempest (1611) and the poet in the closing lines of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Kubla Khan" (1816) are literary ancestors to Updike's trio of women. While Updike never directly states it, he might be implying to readers that the artist's ability to captivate through their art is akin to magic, which can be wielded for either benevolent or malevolent purposes.

John Updike's novel presents a multifaceted exploration of the theme of instant wish fulfillment and its accompanying moral dilemmas. The narrative delves into the tantalizing possibility of immediate gratification of one's desires and probes the inherent risks and ethical quandaries this presents. Central to the narrative is the question of whether such power inevitably leads to corruption, and if so, to what extent does it alter the fabric of morality? Furthermore, the novel challenges readers to consider the boundaries of indulgence, posing the critical inquiry: how much pleasure can one pursue before it becomes excessive? Through these themes, the story invites a reflective examination of human nature and the consequences of unbridled power.

The novel delves into the intricacies of small-town life through a lens of humor and satire, painting a vivid picture that both entertains and critiques. It expertly captures the quirks and idiosyncrasies of a close-knit community, poking fun at the conventional norms and behaviors that define it. The story unfolds with a lively and unabashedly spirited narrative, offering readers a chance to laugh at the familiar scenarios and archetypes often found in small towns. Through its characters and plot, the novel delivers a playful yet sharp commentary on the peculiarities of Americana, inviting readers to reflect on the universal truths hidden within its seemingly exaggerated portrayals.

The complex interplay between religion, gender, and morality is intricately woven into the fabric of the characters’ daily lives. Through the experiences of Alexandra, Jane, and Sukie, these themes come to life, revealing both the allure and the danger of wielding supernatural powers. Alexandra, grappling with her own insecurities and the mundane nature of her existence, turns to witchcraft as a means to invigorate her life. With a mere whispered spell or fleeting thought, she can dispel trivial annoyances. Yet, this newfound power carries a perilous edge, evidenced by the unfortunate incident where a mere whim results in Mrs. Lovecraft’s broken hip.

Jane's journey into the depths of her passion for the cello, instigated by the enigmatic and devilish Darryl, serves as a cautionary tale. What begins as fervent dedication soon morphs into an all-consuming obsession, leaving her cello—and metaphorically, her aspirations—in ruins. Her once harmonious relationship with music crumbles under the weight of her unchecked desires.

Meanwhile, Sukie’s evolution is no less dramatic. Initially a nurturing and free-spirited confidante to Alexandra, she finds herself transformed by the dark forces at play. Her innocence gives way to a desire for vengeance, marking her transition into a formidable witch. Through these characters, the narrative delves into the seductive yet hazardous nature of power, posing critical questions about its moral implications and the gender dynamics at play.

Darryl, enigmatic and elusive, stands as the focal point for the witches’ powers, yet paradoxically, he never exhibits supernatural abilities himself. His presence is not marked by any tangible otherworldliness, save for a superficial allure that captivates those around him. Strikingly unfazed by the witches' magical exploits, he navigates their world with ease, embodying a source of both fascination and dependency.

This dynamic suggests that Darryl's role is not that of an orchestrator but rather a passive participant, a vessel that channels the witches’ desires. He indulges their whims, providing a mirror that reflects their own potential for evil and corruption, which Updike posits as originating more from within than from any external source. The narrative subtly implies that the true impetus behind corruption lies in the depths of human need and craving, rather than in any supernatural interference.

The narrative delves into the ramifications of unchecked power while prompting readers to reflect on the moral compass guiding human behavior. It questions what might happen if one could simply wish away inconveniences—like an annoying neighbor's dog—without adhering to the usual societal checks and balances. Would anyone wield such power responsibly, or would the allure of absolute control prove too tempting? Within The Witches of Eastwick, the story of three witches unfolds as they repeatedly bypass these societal restraints. The novel, while offering entertainment through its humor, excitement, and sensuousness, subtly invites readers to ponder these ethical dilemmas.