What is the author's tone in The Man Who Loved Children by Christina Stead?

There is a tone of reality through much of the book. There are many people in the story who have issues with recognizing and living in reality. The main person in this position is Samuel Pollit. As the father of 7 children, Sam does not recognize the reality of the situation he and Henny have created. The Pollits cannot afford to have such a large family. However, Sam would have a million children if he could since he delights in the eagerness he sees in the children as well as their unfettered adoration of him.