Askew's obsession
Askew becomes so obsessed with the past that he becomes consumed by it, and does not live fully in the present. Kit teaches him that it is possible to both appreciate and hold onto the past while living in the present.
Irony of Askew's father
Askew's father blames the closure of the mines for his demise. However, we see that he does not help himself. He spends his days in the pub and is depicted as a violent character.
Irony of Lak's story
When Kit first begins to write Lak's story, he believes that it is entirely made up. Ironically, the character of Lak slowly starts to resemble John Askew.
