Previous
Chapter 18
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in The 5th Wave, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Trust and Belief
Survival and Perseverance
Warfare and Dehumanization
Family
Summary
Analysis
Colonel Vosch was the only soldier in the building not holding a rifle. Cassie’s dad grabbed Cassie’s hand as they entered. Hutchfield did a headcount and said everyone was there, but Cassie pointed out that Crisco was still missing. Cassie’s dad suggested that Cassie go find Crisco, which would also take her by where she hid her M16. The colonel agreed to let Cassie go look for him, but he made Corporal Branch accompany her. Cassie’s dad hugged her.
Cassie’s dad’s suggestion that Cassie go on her own to find Crisco shows how he is committed to preserving the future and protecting his family, even more than he values protecting himself. His hug shows that he expects this might be the last time he sees Cassie for a while—or for good.
Themes
Cassie and Corporal Branch went to find Crisco, passing the tree where Cassie has hidden her gun. They found Crisco in a pit of ash scavenging for valuables. Cassie pointed out Crisco. Crisco started telling them that Crisco wasn’t his real name, but before he could finish the sentence, the corporal pulled out his weapon and killed Crisco.
This passage is the moment where the tension bursts, and the soldiers reveal their true murderous intentions. Despite his flaws, Crisco is an innocent victim, and Cassie learns firsthand the dangers of putting too much trust in authority.
Themes
