Love and Sacrifice

Romantic love is a source of hope and pain, as seen in Jim's devotion to Jeanie, Dick's relationship with Gracey, and Aileen's love for Starlight; these relationships drive characters toward redemption or deeper tragedy.

Jim's silent endurance of pain and his treasuring of Miss Falkland's handkerchief suggest a nascent, unspoken devotion.

Dick and Jim's relationships with Kate and Jeanie are tested by the necessity of flight, highlighting the tension between love and survival.

Dick's renewed feelings for Gracey clash with his criminal entanglements; George's unrequited love for Aileen highlights the theme of sacrifice.

Jim's devotion to Jeanie and Dick's lingering feelings for Gracey contrast with Kate's bitter, transactional marriage.