Loneliness

The author uses the theme of loneliness to contrast loneliness and solitude and how the difference impacts different characters. Virgil spends a lot of time alone and seems to prefer his own company. He is not anti-social, but somewhat withdrawn. When Virgil’s doctor recommends that Virgil should have someone stay with him, Virgil is reluctant. Virgil ultimately asks Rune to stay with him because Virgil likely sees Rune understanding solitude in the way that he does.

While Rune is a solitary character, he is rarely alone because of his kite. The kite stands in for company for Rune; as such Rune is never alone when he is flying his kite. The kite also draws others to him. Rune can interact with people, but it may not include eye contact. Rune and the other person can watch the kite while they are talking. It gives Rune...