At its core, Cariana is a story about identity—how it is shaped, fractured, and slowly rebuilt. The protagonist grows up navigating a world where belonging is uncertain and emotional support is inconsistent. As a result, identity becomes something fragile, constantly tested by external circumstances.

The novel explores how family dynamics, cultural displacement, and emotional neglect influence self-worth. Without a stable foundation, Cariana is left to define herself through survival rather than self-expression. This struggle reflects a reality many readers recognize: identity is often formed not by choice, but by circumstance.

Belonging in Cariana is not guaranteed by blood or proximity. Instead, it is something the character searches for internally. The absence of emotional safety forces difficult questions—Who am I without approval? Where do I belong when home doesn’t feel safe?

Through quiet moments and emotional tension, the novel illustrates how identity evolves over time. It suggests that belonging is not always found in others, but sometimes built slowly from within. This theme makes Cariana deeply relatable and emotionally impactful.