Relationships

One of the primary themes running through the novel is relationships. The two primary relationships the novel tackles is the relationships of a family and friendships. The novel lightly touches upon romantic relationships as well.

Friendship is one of the primary types of relationships the novel tackles. Olive never truly forms any bonds or relationships with any women in the town. While she does have a friend, Bunny, that she confides in from time to time, Olive mostly dismisses the advice Bunny offers her.

Henry, on the other hand, seems to be able to form friendships with various people in town. A special kind of friendship blossoms between Henry and Denise. Henry Kitteridge also tries to befriend Denise's husband, Henry Thibodeau.

The novel lightly touches upon romantic relationships. It reveals the marriages of various characters throughout the novel. Olive and Henry seem to have a rocky marriage. Olive...