What is the theme in Lie Down in Darkness by William Styron?

Absolution (Forgiveness) is another theme in the story. Two primary characters in LIE DOWN IN DARKNESS are in search of absolution of one kind or another. Milton and Peyton both want to be delivered of their emotional and mental difficulties and forgiven for their supposed wrongs. For Milton Loftis, momentary absolution means Helen agreeing to accompany him to the station to retrieve Peyton's body. He longs for Helen to look past his drinking and his affair with Dolly Bonner. For a time, Milton convinces himself that he and Helen belong together.