Through flashbacks, points on politics and independence are strongly brought out, since the political struggles for independence in Belize at that time also mirrors Beka's own need for self-rule and her developing maturity. Beka's father (Bill Lamb) cuts down Beka's favorite tree (a bougainvillea) as a sign that the wild ways Beka had picked up must stop at once when she finally tells him that she has failed her exam.
Through flashbacks, essential themes of politics and independence are underscored, echoing Beka's own struggle for self-reliance and maturity. When Beka shares her disappointment with her father (Bill Lamb), he responds by cutting down the bougainvillea tree she holds dear, illustrating that her youthful impulsiveness must be tempered.