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In The Glass Castle, self-sufficiency and independence are required in Jeannette and her siblings lives as they learn to navigate life without relying on her parents. Rex and Rose Mary embrace a parenting style of extreme self-reliance, often neglecting their children's basic needs under the belief that struggle fosters strength. As a result, Jeannette and her siblings take on responsibilities far beyond their years, learning to cook, earn money, and fend for themselves just to survive. Over time, Jeannette realizes that true independence requires breaking free from her parents influence, leading her to work toward a stable future. Over time, Jeannette realizes that being independent means escaping her parents' unstable lifestyle, so she works hard to build a better future. Moving to New York is her way of taking control of her life and breaking free from the struggles of her childhood. "You didn't have to ask Dad for help. He liked it when we could fend for ourselves."

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In The Glass Castle, forgiveness is an important theme as Jeannette learns to accept her parents despite their flaws. Rex and Rose Mary Walls often neglect their children, choosing their own interests over their family’s needs. Even though Jeannette is hurt by their actions, she never completely turns away from them. As she grows older, she realizes that holding onto anger will not change them, so she chooses to let go of her resentment. Forgiving them does not mean she forgets their mistakes, but it allows her to move forward with her life. By the end of the book, she finds peace by accepting her past while still building a better future for herself. "I had forgiven my father long before he died, and I realized that forgiving him had been one of the keys to my happiness."

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In The Glass Castle, neglect is a main theme that affects Jeannette and her siblings. Rex and Rose Mary ignore their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and safety. Instead of taking responsibility, they focus on their own interests, like Rex’s drinking and Rose Mary’s art. As a result, the children learn to take care of themselves at a young age, finding food and money however they can. Even though their parents claim to love them, their neglect forces the children to become independent much earlier than most. This theme shows how their difficult upbringing pushes them to escape and build better lives for themselves. "Mom, we don’t have any food," I said. She thought about it for a moment. "Well, why don’t you go forage for some?"

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In The Glass Castle, the theme of broken promises plays a significant role in shaping Jeannette Walls’ life. Her father, Rex, constantly assures his children of a brighter future, especially with his promise of building the “Glass Castle.” However, his alcoholism and reckless behavior prevents him from ever making these dreams a reality. Similarly, Rose Mary prioritizes her personal desires over her children’s well-being, often neglecting their basic needs despite promising otherwise. As a result, Jeannette and her siblings grow up learning not to rely on their parents, instead taking control of their own futures. The memoir highlights how repeated broken promises can create both disappointment and resilience, ultimately driving the Walls children to escape their unstable upbringing. "I had been counting on him to keep his promises, to change, but I was finally seeing the truth."

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In The Glass Castle, Jeannette shows unconditional love for her mother despite years of neglect. Rose Mary often prioritizes personal freedom over caring for her children, but that still didn't affect the love Jeanette had for her mother. Even when Jeannette realizes her mother’s irresponsibility, she continues to seek her approval and tries to help her. Even through a very rough upbringing, Jeannette never completely cuts ties with her mother, proving that her love for her mother persists despite the pain she endured. The Glass Castle explores how unconditional love can be complicated, especially when it is not always returned in the way one hopes. "I told Mom I would help her find a place and pay the rent until she got settled."

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In The Glass Castle, Jeannette’s journey to adulthood is shaped by hardship and self-discovery. Growing up with neglectful parents forces her to become independent at a young age. As she matures, she begins to see the flaws in her parents’ way of life and dreams of escaping poverty. Moving to New York marks a turning point, allowing her to take control of her future and build her own identity. However, even as she distances herself, she struggles with guilt and her deep rooted connection to her family. Her story illustrates the challenges of growing up and finding one’s identity while trying to break free from a difficult past. "I had to get out. I had to make something of myself. I had to escape."