The Child in Time | Themes

The Child in Time Themes

Survival

Stephen and Julie, as the main characters of this story, are never in physical danger but their survival is nonetheless a major theme of this story. Each is forced to find a way to go on with life after their three-year-old daughter is kidnapped. Though it is not recognized initially as part of the survival process, both set out to heal in their own ways. Julie pulls inward and spends time alone in their apartment, seldom stirring and apparently focusing on the thought process that will eventually be her salvation. Stephen is spurred into action, believing that if he works hard enough, he can find Julie. Stephen seldom stops to do more than catch a few hours sleep at night and grab something fast to eat. Each goes through some additional stages before reaching a point where they can live with their grief and the loss of their daughter. In...
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