Separation

Toby and Rachel’s separation symbolizes the interpersonal schisms that may arise due to conflicts in interpersonal perspectives. Throughout their marriage, conflict arises due to their different views on subjects like work and parenting, but their rapport also degrades due to a lack of communication between their conflicting perspectives. These conflicts ultimately result in their decision to divorce.

Online Dating

In the novel, online dating symbolizes the counterintuitive relationship between dating and loneliness. After Toby and Rachel separate, Toby begins dating many different women whom he meets via online dating. However, these relationships are generally brief and shallow, and so Toby descends into a state of deep loneliness and sadness.

Rachel’s Career

Rachel’s career symbolizes the difficulties of being a successful woman in a patriarchal society. Rachel and Libby both face dynamics of social disapproval due to the fact that they are successful, career-focused...