In many ways, this novel speaks to the power of the human spirit to generate and create change. Simsion renders a character, Don, who grows profoundly, by means of his own determination and insights, with a little additional help from his friends. At the beginning of the novel, Don studies the behavior of others with great attention and detail. His observations lead him to insights about human nature and behavior, eventually enabling him to apply that observational knowledge to his own life.

The only way that human beings can change is through their ability to be self-aware and use their intellect for self-analysis and reflection. A secondary theme in the novel, related to the power to change is expressed by the notion that people are generally blind when it comes to their own behavior and situations. Early in the novel, Don says, “Humans often fail to see what is close to them and obvious to others” (82).

At the time Don makes that comment, it is ironical, because he is completely oblivious to many of his own violations of social conventions that result in painful situations for him. Later, this statement takes on an additional ironic twist because he cannot see, though it is obvious to his friends and to the reader, that he is developing serious feelings for Rosie.