What are the motifs in Staying On by Paul Scott?

The relationship of marriage is examined from several different viewpoints using two relationships as examples through the course of this book. The Smalleys have been married for 40 years but still do not really communicate. Lucy is outgoing and verbal while Tusker only wants to fade into the background. Lucy entered the marriage with romantic notions and expectations concerning the sexual aspect of marriage, which Tusker has not come close to fulfilling.