Failure of Social Structures

One theme that resounds throughout the entire novel is that of the failure of all social structures in the lives of the characters to provide a moral basis for life. Joe Lon, the primary character, has a clearly dysfunctional family who has taught him nothing about the value of love, honor, respect, or moral living. His father is an alcoholic, his mother committed suicide, and his sister is insane. While his father doesn't agree with Joe Lon's abuse of his wife, he himself treats his animals horribly and cruelly. This doesn't provide Joe Lon with a solid base for learning to treat others well. Big Joe, the father, has operated a liquor store his entire life, and has drank most of the profits, which again taught Joe Lon immoral practices. In addition, Joe Lon's own family is a testament to dysfunction. Joe Lon beats his...