Chapter 172 of All the Colors of the Dark captures a year in the narrator’s life after parting ways with Grace. The chapter presents a time of reflection, centered around the life the narrator shares with his daughter, Charlotte. This year is characterized by their daily routines, where each moment spent together highlights the warmth and comfort they find in each other’s company. The changing seasons and the evolving nature of Charlotte’s growth are symbolized subtly through the clothes she wears, grounding the narrative in time and creating an emotional connection to the progression of their lives.

In January, the two enjoy a memorable day at the Mad House, where they watch a 49ers game against the Chargers. This moment sparks Charlotte’s curiosity, and she seeks out an old football in the attic, dreaming of becoming a football player. She practices throwing the football in the frosty yard, her imagination running wild as she envisions herself in the world of sports. However, when Charlotte playfully mentions wanting to play contact sports, Norma cautions her, humorously warning of the potential consequences of such activities. Charlotte, in her usual spirited way, dismisses the warning and reflects on the idea of not having children, indicating her growing ability to consider her future independently. This playful yet thoughtful exchange between Charlotte and Norma highlights the innocence and wisdom that intermixes within Charlotte as she begins to navigate her world and form her own opinions.

Every month, Charlotte and the narrator continue their ritual of visiting the Alamo Theatre. They share popcorn while watching horror films, and though Charlotte finds herself terrified of Freddy Krueger, her resolve to continue watching is unwavering. The fear that arises in these moments reflects not just her love for the thrill of the experience but also her budding understanding of confronting fears head-on. These shared experiences in the theatre bring them closer, as they bond over the spectacle of fear and imagination.

However, the narrative shifts when tragedy strikes in Oklahoma, creating a profound impact on Charlotte. The news of the devastation and loss of life disturbs her deeply, and she is unable to sleep, overwhelmed by the suffering she has witnessed. As a result, the narrator’s protective instincts are triggered, and he stays by Charlotte’s door through the night, watching over her as she struggles to come to terms with the cruelty of the world. This emotional exchange underscores the deep bond between father and daughter and the vulnerability that both of them share. Charlotte’s exposure to real-world suffering marks a turning point in her understanding of the fragility of life, while the narrator’s commitment to her well-being highlights his role as a constant protector and source of stability.

The family’s ritual of lighting candles at St. Raphael’s offers a poignant moment of both mourning and hope. As Charlotte reads about a grieving mother, she grows more attuned to the complexities of life, particularly the themes of loss, grief, and empathy. This moment is a crucial step in her emotional development, as she learns to grapple with the weight of sorrow while maintaining a sense of compassion. The chapter ends on a thought-provoking note, as Charlotte inquires about the mystery of missing girls, indicating her curiosity about the darker aspects of life. This question serves as a metaphor for her increasing awareness of the complex and painful realities that exist beyond the safe confines of her childhood.

Through these intertwined moments of ordinary life and deeper emotional revelations, Chapter 172 poignantly explores the evolving relationship between the narrator and Charlotte. It illustrates the complexities of growing up, the inevitability of facing harsh realities, and the solace found in family bonds. The chapter subtly reflects on the passage of time, drawing attention to Charlotte’s developing sense of self, her growing awareness of loss and grief, and her unwavering curiosity about the world. By the end of the chapter, Charlotte’s journey from innocence to a more mature understanding of the world around her is clearly marked, offering both hope and sorrow in equal measure.