Control

Control functions as a the main source of change in this novel. The amount of control that Cheryl has over her own life shifts dramatically as the novel progresses, and her reaction and ability to deal with this change is the defining aspect of the novel.

Cheryl's control over her own life, her thoughts and her house as well as Dr. Tibbets' lack of control over her own happiness despite her attempts to escape and regain this control are the two aspects that are most prevalent in the novel. Cheryl is meticulous in her household's appearance and preparation. She has a system of eating that only leaves certain plates dirty so that they can easily be cleaned and reused the next day. She has shelves on shelves of unused cutlery, something that Clee finds strange but Cheryl finds logical and correct. She has a method regarding...