This theme is prevalent in Keller’s story because it is the lynchpin of her strong character. Despite the odds against her — from the freak illness and subsequent blindness and deafness to the challenges in communication and education — Keller perseveres and overcomes, replacing depression and darkness with gratitude that is wholehearted and genuine.

It is one thing to hope and dream, another to take the steps necessary to achieve one’s goals. Keller’s diligence, her sincere desire to communicate, to be educated, to see the world in any way that she could, is a constant theme throughout her early life story.

Keller faces multiple obstacles in her childhood. Aside from her illness and the damaging aftermath, she also faces isolation, darkness, and depression, internal demons with which she must occasionally wage war. Those obstacles alone would be enough to fell even the strongest of individuals.

Add the difficulty communicating and being understood to the struggle to become educated, and the reader can see how incredible Keller’s determination and resolve are. Despite everything, Keller never gives up. She is determined to succeed no matter how long it takes or how tough a road she must travel.