Running away is a theme in the story. Rose has never felt comfortable staying in one place. Rose's childhood is upset by the death of her father, leaving her alone with a mother who does the best she can, raising a child on her own. As Rose grows up, she sees her mother derive peace from her religion, so Rose tries to do the same. Rose thinks God will give her a sign when it is time to make choices about her future, about the life she is supposed to live. When Rose meets Thomas Clinton, she thinks he is her sign. Rose believes she is supposed to get married and raise a family.