Conditional Versus Unconditional Love

The question of whether or not unconditional love exists is one that consumes Nina for much of the novel. Initially, the idea that unconditional love does not exist and that her mother could stop loving her at any time seems to be a damaging idea for a young girl to absorb. In truth, readers soon see how Nina’s belief that unconditional love doesn’t exist negatively impacts her relationship with Seth. Her understanding that love is dependent upon conditions allows her to easily accept the conditions Seth places on their relationship whether or not they are ones she is happy with. This creates a power imbalance in her relationship. Nina’s fear that Seth will stop loving her if she doesn’t meet his conditions causes her to be unnaturally devoted to him at the expense of her own personal identity and...