Interpersonal Attachment

The mutual attachments between characters serve as the emotional heart of the novel, and in this way, the novel explores the inherent value of human relationships. For example, Klara’s loyalty towards Josie is a central aspect of both the plot and the novel’s themes. Klara is capable of emotional investment and attachment towards other people. Her loyalty focuses on Josie, but she also has compassion for other important people in Josie’s life, such as Chrissie and Rick. Klara’s primary goal in the novel becomes that of saving Josie from Josie’s potentially terminal illness. Klara also demonstrates an investment in Josie’s friendship and emotional wellbeing. For example: “I hoped the shadows of the Morgan Falls trip might be gone by the next morning, but I was disappointed, and Josie’s cold manner continued for a long time afterwards” (113). Ultimately, Klara...