The primary theme throughout the novel is loss, which is rather apparent. I do think that Scholes deals with the theme in a few interesting ways.

The whole thread of the story the details the Li Tam projects over the years is an interesting concept, and a central theme of the story. The idea that through manipulation of losses and events in a person's life, certain results can be expected. We are the product of our experiences, losses and victories. Scholes explores that in many ways, and with most of his chracters... especially in Rudolfo and in Isaak, internal and external for the reader.

Any thoughts, or something that you noticed?