The tone of the book is very mournful as the author laments the death of his son. Simultaneously, the author expresses great faith in his religion as he turns to God for comfort. The author refuses to renounce God and Christianity despite his friend's suggestion that he do so. The author intends to hold his son in remembrance in order to honor his son's memory, and Lament for a Son serves as a memorial to Eric's memory. The author also uses the book to encourage others who are going through similar situations that there is hope. The book is hopeful in terms of hoping for the reunion that will occur on the Day of Judgment. The author seems to look forward to being reunited with his son.