Edward discovering the letters written by those affected by the crash is instrumental in his coping process. Responding to the letters becomes Edward’s way of breaking through his isolation and forging connections with others. This contrasts how the plane passengers were unable to strengthen their relationships on the flight.

The letters provide Edward a window into the trauma of others. The tragedy, in Edward’s eyes, no longer belongs to him. It is something he shares with strangers, as well as his family and friends. As a conduit for action, the letters provide Edward with his first sense of relief after the crash: “The darkness inside him has taken on a new shade; there’s a richness to it […] He hasn’t experienced this feeling since his family died, and it’s accompanied by an explosion of relief” (239).

Edward’s sense of pain shifts from internal to external; the letters make it clear that others are suffering. It is as if the letters offer Edward a secret power. He can read the thoughts of others and provide solace to them while healing himself in the process. Reading the letters represents a gateway for Edward from inaction to action.