The author bookends the story with church bells. At the beginning, their loud clamor torments Robin as he lies helpless in bed; near the end, a different set of bells fill his heart with joy as they sound the alarm that, through his brave efforts, saves a town. Church bells coming from multiple directions emphasize the book’s medieval context, as Robin’s home is surrounded by numerous Catholic Churches. Their music is a motif that reflects Robin’s own spirit: At first, their cries are agonizing and provoke pain as he experiences an illness, but later they demonstrate triumph, courage, and pride.

As Robin recovers from his illness, he takes up woodcarving. His first project is a toy boat, and it’s a success. He then tries a more difficult challenge, constructing a Christian cross that must be fit together with a special technique. Getting the crosspieces to match frustrates the boy, who angrily tosses wood and chisel across the carpentry shop. He calms down, starts again, and succeeds in creating the work.

His next project is a set of crutches; with these, Robin once again can move about quickly. The skills that he developed through carving allow him to build objects that restore his mobility on land.