Obsession and Devotion

The book explores golf as an all-consuming passion that can dominate a person's life, often to the detriment of other pursuits, yet is portrayed with affectionate humor as a noble quest.

Peter and James's unwavering dedication to golf overrides their romantic interests, illustrating the theme of devotion to the game as a higher calling.

Mortimer Sturgis's sudden and all-consuming obsession with golf after his first lesson, leading to neglect of his personal relationships and a loss of proportion.

George's obsessive talking and Celia's devoted love despite his flaw highlight the tension between obsession and devotion.

Both Ralph and Arthur's obsessive rivalry over Amanda Trivett drives the plot, culminating in a match that consumes their focus.