Loss

The ruling theme of Bridge of Clay is loss, be that in the form of death or departure. The three great tragedies of Clay's life are all experienced as losses: the death of his mother, Penny; the disappearance of his father shortly after his mother's death; and the death of Carey Novac, the love of his life. Michael, too, suffers three losses in the form of Abbey Hanley, his first wife, leaving him; his mother's death; and the death of his second wife, Penny. Before she dies, Penny also has to deal with the death of her father, Waldek. Profound loss is a constant presence in the novel.

However, Zusak is careful to distinguish between two kinds of loss, and Clay's emotional journey in the novel charts his ability to understand the difference between death and departure. Some losses, he learns, are not forever. He also...