Salt to the Sea

Salt to the Sea

by

Ruta Sepetys

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Salt to the Sea: 90. Florian Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Joana is annoyed to arrive and find that Florian did not have an emergency. Still, she stays to talk. Florian asks to see her boarding pass and looks at it carefully, memorizing details so he can forge his own later. Joana tells Florian that she is aboard the Wilhelm Gustloff, which is going to Kiel, near the Danish border, where Anni might be.
Florian initially wants to be on the same ship as Joana because he likes her, but is further motivated by the realization that he will potentially be able to reunite with his little sister.
Themes
Family and Community vs. Selfishness  Theme Icon
Joana accuses Florian of only talking to her when he needs something, but he changes the subject quickly to ask her about her time in school. As they talk they draw closer together, almost kissing, before Joanna pulls back and leaves.
Joana is correct that Florian has been using and manipulating her. However, some of the feelings between them are real, and they are genuinely attracted to each other.
Themes
Family and Community vs. Selfishness  Theme Icon