Love and Human Connection

Rutherford's intense yearning for genuine love and sympathy, his repeated disappointments in relationships (including a broken engagement and unreciprocated devotion), and the theme that such connection is the most precious but often unattainable thing.

The failure of love in Miss Arbour's marriage and Rutherford's broken engagement highlight the difficulty of genuine connection.

The emotional power of Mary's song and Rutherford's impulsive kiss highlight the need for human intimacy amidst spiritual isolation.

Rutherford's love for Mary Bell, though unrequited, provides a focus that helps him recover from monomania.

Theresa's gentle care and reassurance provide a profound emotional healing, leading Rutherford to worship her with absorbing love.