Survival

The author uses the backdrop of World War II to illustrate the different ways people must find a way to ensure their survival. For both Anna and the Swallow Man, their survival is contingent on adapting to their surroundings and making difficult compromises.

Anna is left alone after the Nazis take her father. She spends the first night alone, but knows that she must do something to ensure her survival. She befriends the Swallow Man, fascinated by his ability to talk to birds, speak multiple languages, and his enormous height. The Swallow Man does not offer to help Anna, rather she follows him, giving her agency for her survival. She may need him to help her, but she plays a part.

She is also empathetic to the survival of others. Anna senses immediate fondness for Reb Hirschl when they meet. She wants him to join her...