The shifting intragenerational and intergenerational dynamics between the McLaughlin family are essential to the narrative and emotional arc of the novel. While their father, Patrick, was alive, Kelly and her siblings have tried to stay connected, even with growing personality clashes and unresolved tensions. However, after he died, the family began to drift apart. The McLaughlin children became distant or confrontational toward each other, particularly Kelly and Meggy, who were never fond of each other. This is important because family dramas emphasize that the characters do not exist independently. Especially in families, characters are tied to one another, and their relationships—for better or worse—can seriously impact their lives. The title Within Arm’s Reach focuses on this dichotomy of family being so close but still so far away when new and old wounds threaten relationships.

One of the novel’s focuses is marriage. Louis and Kelly have grown distant in their marriage, talking to each other less each year. Eddie’s death increases this distance on Louis’s part, frustrating Kelly in the process. Becoming more resentful of her family’s pressure on her, Kelly starts to distance herself from her family and begins a secret affair with Vince Carrelli.