Unwind

Loneliness is a consistent motif throughout the narrative. Connor fears running away without his friend Ariana because he does not want to be alone. Risa feels lonely when her teacher, a father figure, won’t look at her when she is taken away. And Lev feels like the odd-man out when he is kidnapped. He is further confused when Pastor Dan tells him to run. Overall, all three experience loneliness, and feel better when they have a companion. The loneliness represents each Unwind’s position as an “other.” Connor and Risa pleadingly ask the teacher not to rat them about because they want her to be human. Unfortunately, as Unwinds, they are not viewed as human. At the same time, they don’t view anyone who participates in or supports the process of Unwinding as human. As “others,” Risa and Connor are hidden away—secrets not worthy of being discussed. Only together do they defeat loneliness.

The Graveyard is a symbol of hope throughout the novel. For many Unwinds it is a myth, much like the Akron AWOL, but it is a myth worth clinging to. These kids are lonely, they have little hope.