* Memory and the Past: The novel explores the power of memory and how it shapes our present. The characters grapple with the weight of past experiences, both personal and historical, and how these experiences continue to affect their lives.
* Loss and Grief: The novel deals with the profound impact of loss and grief. The characters experience the loss of loved ones, the loss of innocence, and the loss of a sense of purpose.
* Identity and Self-Discovery: The characters navigate their own identities, often struggling to reconcile their past selves with who they are now. They question their choices, their relationships, and their place in the world.
* The Power of Literature: The novel uses literature as a vehicle for exploring the human condition. The characters find solace, connection, and understanding through books and the written word.
* The Nature of Truth: The novel questions the nature of truth and how it is constructed. The characters grapple with different versions of the past and struggle to understand what is truly real.
* Love and Relationships: The novel explores the complexities of love and relationships. The characters navigate difficult relationships, struggle with communication, and seek connection and intimacy.
Ultimately, After is a meditation on the human experience, exploring the themes of memory, loss, identity, and the enduring power of stories.