Lindbergh identifies women's need for self-realization and the balancing act demanded of women caught between reality and romantic illusions about their role in society. She focuses on the problems of fragmentation caused by the increasing choices both women and men face as the result of the social changes realized by the ideals of feminism. Warning of a certain destructiveness and instability in competitive American society, Lindbergh observes that the overwhelming distractions and pressures women find in their new roles place multiple demands on their time and energy. Gift from the Sea recognizes these problems and pressures, but also offers readers an optimistic direction with possible solutions for overcoming this Zerissenheit or "tearing apartness." Woven into the narrative are themes of marriage, friendship, coming of age, individualism, and spiritual fulfillment.

The narrative, presented as a series of reflections, is inspired by the narrator's week-long...