What is the theme in The Cape Ann by Faith Sullivan?

The pursuit of the American Dream can blind its pursuers to the actual problems they experience in life and indirectly cause some of the issues people experience. Arlene is an independent woman who is willing to work to make a better life for her family. Willie is the antagonist who attempts to regain some of the control he thinks he is losing. For all the steps Arlene takes forward, Willie pushes her back many more steps with his gambling losses, his anger and his attitude.