This novel follows many of the same themes as Barnes' other works. Centering on the social manners of upper middle class society, her female protagonists are often traditionalists, struggling to uphold conventional morality in the face of changing social climates.
The narrative follows a pattern seen in Barnes' previous works. Set within the context of upper-middle class society's social customs, her female protagonists generally uphold traditional morals, facing challenges as societal norms evolve.