A Walk to Remember: Themes/Symbols

The Bible

The Bible is integral to the novel, an important symbol by which Jamie is known. When anyone talks about Jamie, she is referred to as the girl who carries the Bible everywhere. She spends time reading the Bible, one of the many things that separate her from her peers. Once people know Jamie better, they also understand her connection with the Bible.

The Bible belonged to Jamie’s mother, who had died during childbirth. Jamie always keeps the Bible with herself as a way of remaining connected with her mother. The Bible gives her the strength and hope that her mother would have ideally provided her with.

It is also interesting to note that Landon, too, eventually turns to the Bible to seek answers. When he finds it difficult to deal with the reality of his circumstances, he reads the Bible for comfort.

Growing up

Although often classified as a love story, A Walk to Remember is a coming-of-age novel. The protagonist, Landon, undergoes growth and transformation owing to the experiences he has. Landon’s relationship with Jamie brings about significant changes in life. He becomes more self-aware, generous, and kind. He starts to visit the orphanage with Jamie and spends time with the kids there. Influenced by Jamie, he starts reading the Bible in times of despair. Even his relationship with his father improves as time passes by. From being arrogant and self-centred, Landon changes to become selfless and kind.

Death

Death is a recurrent and important theme in the novel. In the beginning, Landon talks about the death of the small town and the upsurge of suburban sprawl. Then, readers are informed about the death of Jamie’s mother. Jamie’s illness is also hinted at from the beginning itself; as the narrative unfolds, readers are made aware of Jamie’s illness. Jamie’s life and experience highlight the stark reality and inevitability of death. In metaphorical terms, Landon’s growth also implies that his innocence and adolescence are behind him; he’s now grown into a more mature and responsible person.