Perspective

The central theme of the novel is perspective and the ways that different events can hold different meanings for different people. Ben’s path as a protagonist follows his change in perspective from the opening of the novel, when he believes that his life no longer has any value or meaning, to the end of the novel where he has discovered a new sense of purpose and desire to live. Although Ben’s internal perspective on his life undergoes a major change during the course of the novel, his external circumstances remain the same: he is still widowed and still dying of cancer. However, he no longer believes that his external circumstances define who he really is or what he is able to contribute in the world.

Throughout the novel Ben is confronted with other characters who challenge his perspective on his life, beginning with the...