Although de Lint often focuses on controversial social issues, in "Small Deaths," he does not. Hilary's lesbianism is touched on, but it primarily adds complexity to her relationship with heterosexual Zoe, and it gives her a somewhat different perspective on men than Zoe has; otherwise, it is not a topic that is developed. Instead, "Small Deaths" is about self-discovery, about Zoe Brill learning about her capacity to heal.