Luck

Luck or fortune is the central theme of the novel, which appears throughout the narrative, intersecting with elements of magic, genetics, and wealth. The novel explores how luck, whether perceived as random chance or manipulated through human intervention, shapes the lives of its characters in profound and often unintended ways.

The magical element of the lotus seed, which Mae swallows before making a wish, symbolizes the mysterious and uncontrollable nature of luck. Mae’s encounter with the seed and her ability to pause time represents a literal manifestation of luck—an extraordinary gift that allows her to manipulate time and, by extension, create her own opportunities. This luck is then passed on through the generations when both Lily and Nick inherit the ability to pause time. This magical ability underscores the novel's exploration of how luck can be seen as both a blessing and a curse...