Point of Retreat

The vase of handwritten stars, a posthumous gift from Lake’s mother, acts as a symbol of support and guidance, pointing to the novel’s thematic interest in The Importance of Chosen Family and Community. The stars function as a tangible replacement for the parental advice that Will and Lake can no longer receive, providing a crucial touchstone of support as they navigate their redefined family. Julia’s instructions make the vase’s purpose explicit: “I just want there to be something both of you can go to if and when you ever need it” (33). The vase is not merely a memorial but an active tool for their future—a physical manifestation of Julia’s faith in their relationship and her desire to help them build a strong foundation. By creating this resource, Julia solidifies her role as a guiding force even after her death, underscoring Hoover’s portrayal of family as a bond forged through love and intention, not just biology. The act of opening a star becomes a ritual of vulnerability for Lake and Will—an admission that they need help, which is essential for their growth.

The vase proves most critical during Lake and Will’s central romantic conflict. After Lake’s trust in Will is shattered, she feels emotionally lost and retreats into herself. In a moment of desperation, Will turns to the vase for guidance on how to mend their relationship. The message he finds inside—“Sometimes two people have to fall apart to realize how much they need to fall back together” (110)—becomes the thematic core of their reconciliation. This aphorism provides a new lens through which to view their crisis, reframing it not as an end but as a necessary step toward a stronger bond. The star gives Will the hope and perspective needed to fight for Lake, demonstrating that the vase is more than a collection of quotes; it is a source of wisdom that actively shapes their path back to one another.