A major theme of the book, Prior's intense and indiscriminate bisexuality, is effectively contrasted with Rivers's tepid asexuality and Sassoon's pure homosexuality. Greater fictional scope also permits a deeper treatment of the psychological, political and professional life of the central character, Billy Prior.
The book examines the contrasting sexual orientations of its characters: Prior's intense bisexuality versus Rivers's tepid asexuality and Sassoon's pure homosexuality. The novel also provides a more comprehensive look at the life of Billy Prior, encompassing his psychological, political, and professional aspects.