Time- A unique trait of Egan’s novel is this ability to analyze the characters to an extent that would be difficult if the plot were to follow a chronological order. Time can be used to portray the negative effect it has on characters, or how characters are resistant of change. With characters like Lou and Jocelyn one can examine the negative effect time has had on their personality and relationships with one another. Time seems to play a significant role in Lou’s life in particular, with one chapter showing him at the prime of his youth, and the next on his deathbed. As the novel continues the reader can see different snapshots of the characters from various periods of their lives.
Sunlight- A symbol that comes up at various points in the novel, with different roles and characteristics every time. With numerous examples of change in the characters with time, the sun shares this trait, but is nonetheless persistent despite various natures it depicts. An example of a positive role of the sun is when Sasha remembers the joy that came between her and Ted, with the blaze of the western sun in the background. Negative portrayals of the sun can also be seen, for example when Jocelyn states the “sun feels like teeth”. The role of the sun changes when her and Rolph wait for it and she starts crying because of a new “fragile” nature it possesses in her arms.
Pauses- There is various examples of pauses seen in between conversations and music, symbolizing of time progressing. In the powerpoint chapter, Allison points out the pauses in music give only the illusion of an end, but these pause can in fact resemble time passing silently. These breaks can also be seen in the A to B chapter, where the characters pause to take account how much their lives are changing. These pauses reminding one of the endless length of time, and resembling chances to take new initiatives in their lives- continuing to change their lives, personality and relationships with one another.
Music- Egan uses music as a strategy to demonstrate several themes and motifs- it acts as the medium between the book and the audience. Music plays an important role in most all of the characters lives, and it represents a human passion that is often brought up. Music is also how the motif of pauses is discussed in the novel. The music industry also changes constantly, which relates to time. Music is used as a motif to relate the characters to the themes.
Perception- Egan discusses the differences between internal and external perception. There are several examples of this, such as the General's chapter, and how wearing a fluffy blue hat can make him seem less cruel, and Kitty Jackson, who scars herself in order to make herself seem to be part of the "in" crowd. Appearance is important for other's opinions, which Egan often discusses. The role of perception is also a postmodernist theme because each opinion and judgment is relative to the individual.
Technology- Technology relates to the theme of change over time. As time progresses, there is an exponential growth in technological advances. The discussion of these in the book in is a way to notice the gaps between generations and time periods. One example of this technology motif is in the powerpoint chapter, which shows how writing and storytelling changes with time as well.