Themes & patterns

The central theme of the book is Arthur Lawford's radical and inexplicable change in appearance and personality after visiting the graveyard, exploring the crisis of selfhood and the struggle to reconcile one's inner and outer selves.

The narrative delves into supernatural forces, including the idea of possession by a historical figure (Nicholas Sabathier), and the characters' attempts to understand the change through spiritual or occult explanations.

Lawford experiences profound isolation from his wife, daughter, and community due to his altered appearance, highlighting the loneliness of being misunderstood and the fear of being deemed insane.

The book constantly questions the boundary between sanity and madness, as Lawford fears for his own mental state while others debate whether he is ill, possessed, or simply delusional.

The strained relationship between Arthur and Sheila Lawford is a key theme, revealing distrust, lack of empathy, and the breakdown of communication in the face of crisis.

The graveyard setting and the figure of Sabathier emphasize themes of death, the lingering influence of the dead, and the haunting power of history and memory on the present.

Characters like Mr. Bethany represent faith and belief in the supernatural, while others like Danton embody skepticism, creating a tension between rational explanation and spiritual acceptance.

Lawford's journey is a quest for inner peace and resolution, whether through reconciliation with his family, understanding his transformation, or finding solace in nature and solitude.