Love and Sacrifice

Romantic love is intertwined with painful choices and self-denial, as seen in Helen's relationships with Paul and Bert, where personal desires are subordinated to duty, economic necessity, or the need for growth.

Paul's visit and Helen's choice highlight the tension between romantic love and personal ambition, requiring sacrifice from both.

Paul and Helen's farewell underscores their love and the sacrifices they make for family obligations and future prospects.

Helen refuses Paul's marriage proposal to avoid spoiling his future, sacrificing her own desires for his sake.

Helen's impulsive acceptance of Bert's proposal reflects a sacrifice of her previous commitment to Paul for a chance at ecstasy.