Loneliness

Loneliness is a central theme in the novel. Wilbur proposes the solution to such a widespread disconnect is to create artificial extended families assigned by shared middle names. His campaign slogan is "Lonesome no more!" This national interconnection and interdependence instills a sense of hope and responsibility in the masses. The underlying message is that life holds most value when individuals support each other; and what stronger support system is there than family? For those who are without family or generally lonely, this welfare strategy of sorts shows that whether relationships are artificial or hereditary, such bonds are a necessity for the survival of the community at large. After Wilbur institutes this program, crime drops as family members hold each other accountable. Spirits are raised, as there is always a family member to lend a hand or share company. The glue of success comes from a sense of...