Five Survive

In Five Survive, Jackson explores the theme of secrets, betrayals, and corruption through the characters and their actions. Almost every character is hiding a secret and betraying someone, even the more compassionate ones, casting the novel’s world in moral ambiguity. Simon lies about the RV and his life, creating a false image of himself for his friends. Reyna lies to Oliver about cheating on him with Jack, and she and Oliver lie to everyone else about Jack’s death. Arthur lies about his motivation for joining Red’s friend group. Maddy lies to Red about knowing her mother killed Red’s mom, and Catherine lies and says Frank Gotti killed Grace. Finally, Red lies about her involvement in the Frank Gotti case, casting herself as an honest witness. On top of these initial lies, character loyalties are tested throughout the novel, and Oliver is especially quick to throw others in harm’s way.

Red is the victim of almost everyone else’s secrets, and the Lavoys in particular drastically change the course of her life. Maddy and Catherine are Red’s closest confidantes and keep secrets from her to benefit themselves. Catherine first betrays Red by killing Grace to protect her own career, characterizing her as a corrupt villain who elevates herself above others.