# Aging and Decline in When God Laughs

> Theme guide for When God Laughs by Jack London.

In 'A Piece of Steak,' the aging prizefighter Tom King confronts the physical and economic decay of his body and career, illustrating the inevitable loss of youth, strength, and opportunity with age.

## Where it surfaces

- [Created He Them](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_god_laughs_se/chapters/created-he-them): Al's physical and moral decay is starkly contrasted with his former strength, highlighting the ravages of time and illness.
- [A Piece of Steak](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_god_laughs_se/chapters/a-piece-of-steak): Tom King's worn hands, swollen veins, and fading endurance illustrate the physical and professional decline that comes with age.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_god_laughs_se/themes/aging_and_decline
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/when_god_laughs_se/themes