The underlying message of this heart-warming story by Tim Winton is the importance of cultural acceptance in a multicultural environment. A naïve Australian couple initially feel uncomfortable when they move into their first home and find that their street is full of European migrants. Despite language barriers, as time goes by the couple and migrants develop a mutual understanding, friendships and a sense of community. This culminates in a tearful scene where a migrant family gathers at their fence to cheer on the home-birth of the couple’s first child. Themes include prejudice, cultural differences, understanding, acceptance, friendship and community.