What is the theme in Staying On by Paul Scott?

Nostalgia is another theme. For many people the past is more real than the present. Often they view it fondly through a haze of time, although others have a sense of regret over past life choices. Lucy, in particular, wanders back to events that happened long before. She seems to use this as a way to escape realities of the present that she does not want to face, such as Tusker's poor health or their deteriorating finances.