* Manifest Destiny and westward expansion: The novel depicts the relentless drive westward, fueled by ambition, greed, and a sense of entitlement. This expansion comes at a cost, impacting both the land and the Native American populations.
* The individual versus nature: The characters struggle to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment, forcing them to confront their own limitations and strengths. Their relationship with the wilderness is complex – one of both awe and exploitation.
* The search for identity and purpose: The protagonists, particularly Boone Caudill, grapple with finding their place in this new land and defining themselves outside of traditional societal structures. Their identities are shaped by their experiences and encounters in the vast, untamed West.
* The changing nature of community: The development of settlements and the impact of encroaching civilization on the established way of life are key aspects of the story.
While the novel touches upon other themes such as love, loss, and friendship, the overarching theme remains the clash between humanity's relentless westward movement and the untouched wilderness it seeks to conquer.