Loyalty

Loyalty is an important theme in The One & Only. The loyalty shown to Walker by its students, alumni and current staff is an obvious extension of the theme. Shea, the Carr family and all their friends are devoted to Walker, especially the football program. Shea even attends the college and stays to work there for 20 years. The entire town of Walker is dedicated to the school's football team and especially to Coach Carr whom has been elevated to hero status. The only one who is not completely immersed in Walker football is the Coach's daughter, Lucy, but she is completely dedicated to her father.

As Lucy's best friend, Shea is loyal to her and the Carr family because she practically grew up in their household. This loyalty will come into question, though, when Shea and the Coach test the boundaries of normally acceptable relationships. Both of...