Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Out of the Dust, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Nature, Survival, and the Dust Bowl
Poverty, Charity, and Community
Coming of Age
Family and Forgiveness
Summary
Analysis
Arley invites Billie Jo to play piano with him, his band, and Mad Dog. Billie Jo does not want to play, but she promises Arley she will try anyway because she feels it is important to him. While rehearsing for the performance, Billie Jo notices Mad Dog looks at her just as he always has. He does not pity her; instead, he treats her normally.
Arley and Mad Dog know Billie Jo needs their support, but they are careful not to pity her like others do. Instead, they treat her just as they always have so as not to alienate her. Additionally, both Arley and Mad Dog genuinely admire Billie Jo’s skill and want to ensure it is not wasted.
Themes
