Gift from the Sea has many tones throughout the book. The author rarely refers to past experiences that made her known to the world. Rather, she tends to focus on a more personal journey. Sociology and philosophy abound, with the author making both factual and subjective statements about the structure of society as well as self.
Overall, the book holds a tone of moving forward with hope and meaning. Realizing one's past and that of one's ancestors encourages change and the ability to see the path more clearly.