Temptation is a recurring idea in the story. It occurs often and is inspired by the Devil. The Devil causes each of the characters to doubt him/ herself. Although Kathleen loves her baby, she is tempted by the voice and attempts suicide. She and Colleen are also visited in their dreams by men and demons who tempt them sexually. In chapter thirty-nine, Kathleen takes an ocean swim. During her swim she is lured out too far from shore.