It is the depiction of characters like Nicola and Jacopo that makes literature a body of optimistic thoughts. The two brothers, who never lose their focus, who never take recourse to easy or wrong ways of earning money, who never expect anything in return for their hard work, who never lose their optimism and cheerfulness, who epitomise selfless love, are fine examples of nobility, and are a promise of greater hope for humanity. They should be emulated by youngsters who are not satisfied with what they have, want to make quick money, have a lust for luxury, take to addiction, and commit suicide at the drop of a hat. The brothers who bond with each other to look after their ailing sister bring nobility to human life in a society wherein family ties are growing weaker and weaker. A.J. Cronin seems to tell us that even when life is not a bed of roses, it is up to us to ensure that the thorns are removed carefully, avoiding unnecessary hurt and pain.
