The novel explores how the pursuit of vengeance can twist even the most innocent of intentions. The young protagonist, forever marked by the traumatic crime he witnessed, dedicates his life to punishing the perpetrators. However, as he becomes consumed by his mission, his humanity gradually erodes, leaving him a shell of his former self.

Cunningham masterfully blurs the lines between good and evil throughout the story. While the protagonist is initially portrayed as a sympathetic victim, his actions become increasingly morally ambiguous as he embraces his vengeful desires. Conversely, the antagonists, though responsible for heinous acts, are shown to possess surprising layers of complexity.

The novel highlights the enduring impact of the past on the present. The protagonist's childhood trauma serves as a driving force behind his actions, shaping his worldview and dictating his choices. Cunningham emphasizes how the past, if left unexamined and unresolved, can hold us captive and prevent us from living fulfilling lives.