James's field of study, American history, perhaps symbolizes his desire to assimilate into a culture that ultimately denies him a place in it. He is incessantly discriminated against and taunted, and his self-esteem is irreparably damaged due to the harassment he faces. Even though he is an esteemed academic, James is not taken seriously due to his race. This description indicates how James Lee is seen by his community. 'This little man, five-foot-nine at most and not even American, was going to teach them about cowboys?' Narrator Instability in the United States, particularly post-WWII, further causes the Lees feelings of insecurity to heighten.

This detail indicates that the Lees are inextricably tied to the world in which they live.

In line with the strange occurrences happening in the world around them, the Lee family's life is tumultuous. This quote provides historical context for the novel. 'For the rest of the world, 1976 was a topsy-turvy time, too, culminating in an unusually cold winter and strange headlines.' Narrator Both James and Marilyn are afraid to be vulnerable with one another, which leads to many instances of miscommunication. However, her inability to discuss her feelings with her husband exemplifies the emotionally closed relationship that the two share. This prompts Marilyn to begin making major changes in her life. Following Doris's death, Marilyn realizes that, despite her best efforts, she is following in her mother's footsteps. Marilyn deeply resents her mother for failing to acknowledge her marriage and insisting that her daughter's educational pursuits were worthless. Marilyn is overwhelmed by complicated emotions following her mother's death. 'So when James came home that night, she said simply, 'My mother died.' Then she turned back to the stove and added, 'And the lawn needs mowing,' and he understood: they would not talk about it.' Narrator In addition, she had the ability to hide her true feelings and intentions from those closest to her. This detail supports the notion that from an early age, Lydia was never fully understood by her parents. Seeing Lydia walk was a surprise for Marilyn, as Lydia didn’t show any signs that she was about to take her first steps. Marilyn reflects upon her past experiences with Lydia, and she recalls the moment that her daughter first started walking. Marilyn says this to herself when she first finds out about Lydia's disappearance. 'What else have you been hiding?’’ Marilyn

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