Generational Conflict

The tension between Neville's pre-war, sophisticated generation and her children Kay and Gerda's earnest, post-war modernism is evident in their differing views on love, marriage, politics, and Freudian psychology.

Nan's cynical view of Gerda and Kay's literary ambitions contrasts with their earnestness.

Neville contrasts her own pre-war sophistication and irony with her children's earnest, post-war directness and acceptance of Freudian ideas.

Neville contrasts her own youthful concerns with her children's more pragmatic and civic-minded attitudes toward love and population.

Nan's jealousy and cynicism toward Gerda and Kay's literary ambitions, and the tension between youth and middle age.