One Plus One: A Novel

“But worse than that, worse than the endless, bloody exhausting financial and energy-sapping struggle, was that being a parent on your own when you were totally out of your depth was actually the loneliest place on earth.”

Following the news of a potential opportunity for Tanzie, Jess reflects on her reality. The repetition of the phrase “worse than” emphasizes the escalating weight of Jess’s burdens, culminating not in a financial but an emotional nadir. This sentence establishes her internal conflict and introduces the theme of The Resilience of the Non-Traditional Family by highlighting the profound isolation that necessitates the creation of new support systems.

“No, if she’s bright like they say she is, she’ll make her own way. She’ll have to go to McArthur’s like everyone else.”

In a phone call, Jess’s ex-husband Marty dismisses the idea of helping to pay for Tanzie’s place at a private school. Marty’s dialogue serves as a foil to Jess’s determination, revealing a worldview where potential is constrained by circumstance. This statement directly addresses the theme of The Impact of Socioeconomic Background on Opportunity, suggesting that systemic disadvantages can create a mindset that normalizes and accepts limited prospects.

“Ed shrugged. ‘Honestly? Five grand doesn’t really make a big difference to me right now.’ And I’d pay ten times that if it meant you would leave.”

This quote captures the moment Ed decides to give Deanna Lewis money and, subsequently, the insider tip that precipitates his downfall. The juxtaposition of his spoken words with his internal monologue reveals a critical aspect of his character: He sees his wealth as a tool to avoid emotional confrontation.