Chapter 123 of All the Colors of the Dark takes place during Thanksgiving, a time when Saint spends two days with her grandmother, Norma. The chapter highlights their familial connection as they prepare a traditional holiday feast together. While Jimmy, who has been drinking, occupies himself with football, Saint takes on the task of cooking, preparing a full meal that includes a roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole.

As the family gathers around the table in their mountain home, a light-hearted moment occurs when Norma jokingly remarks on the buttered biscuits. Her comment, however, subtly reflects her concern for Jimmy’s well-being, particularly as she notices his weight gain since Saint has been away, no longer there to cook for him. This moment of humor quickly transitions to a more intimate scene later on, where Saint and Norma share a brandy on the back porch. Wrapped in a blanket, Saint leans on her grandmother as they engage in a deep conversation about life, love, and the pressures that Jimmy faces as a man. The quiet scene serves as a space for reflection, where both women find solace in their shared understanding of life’s complexities.

Norma’s concerns deepen as she expresses her worries for both Saint and Jimmy, particularly for the fragile male ego. She shares her thoughts on love, describing it as a fleeting visit in life, and discusses how men often stray from their core values, especially when faced with external pressures. This conversation brings out a deep tension in their relationship, with Saint hesitating to fully embrace her choices, unsure of what they mean for her future. Norma’s persistent questioning draws out these underlying uncertainties, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics and the emotional burdens that come with caring for loved ones.

The chapter touches on the themes of nostalgia, sacrifice, and the often painful realities of life. Saint reflects on a time when the evenings felt endless, a stark contrast to the present. Norma’s musings about past struggles, both personal and within their family, emphasize the emotional toll of facing external influences and worrying about loved ones. The chapter ends on a note of reflection about the sacrifices made for one another, particularly regarding Jimmy, and underscores the importance of recognizing the beauty in the world despite the ongoing struggles. It leaves the reader with a lingering sense of unresolved tension, yearning for deeper connections and an understanding of how family bonds shape one’s emotional journey.

Through these moments, Chapter 123 reflects the bittersweet nature of familial relationships. While the holiday meal brings them together physically, the emotional distance between Saint and Jimmy becomes more apparent. The chapter delves into the complexities of love and the difficulties of navigating relationships that are influenced by societal expectations and personal struggles. Saint’s conversations with Norma offer a window into her emotional turmoil, as she tries to reconcile her love for her family with her personal needs and desires. This chapter effectively portrays the internal conflict of characters as they navigate the fine line between duty to others and the pursuit of personal happiness, reminding readers of the challenges that come with balancing love and independence.

Moreover, the Thanksgiving setting provides a powerful backdrop for exploring themes of family dynamics and the weight of past decisions. Norma’s reflections on the struggles they face, particularly in relation to Jimmy’s behavior, offer insight into the complexities of caring for a loved one who seems to be spiraling. As the chapter moves toward its conclusion, the focus shifts to the importance of recognizing the beauty in life and appreciating fleeting moments of connection, especially in the face of ongoing challenges. These reflections highlight the emotional depth of the characters, making their journey resonate with readers who can relate to the difficulty of maintaining relationships in the face of personal growth and adversity.