Home

The idea of home is one which the novel draws into continuous question. The subtler but still important way this theme is challenged is with Molly. Because of her intense social anxiety, Molly is constantly at home with her family. Molly feels safe at home, where she can be alone but still find company in her family when needed. Home is a comfortable place for Molly, but that is no longer a good thing. The comfort of home helps Molly compensate for how afraid she is of the rest of the world, but Molly is tired of being afraid. Leaving home is intimidating for Molly, but it is a necessity. Molly has had a lot of time to herself to reflect, and knows that unless she leaves home and makes some drastic changes, nothing is going to change and she will remain alone.

For Alex, home...