In "Rurik" by Lauren Smith, a key theme revolves around facing life’s challenges without fear. The quote from Peter S. Beagle's "The Last Unicorn" encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: one should not dwell on the past or retreat from difficult situations. The act of running can draw unwanted attention, especially from things that are eternal or powerful, hinting at the necessity of courage and resilience.
Facing fears and standing firm is crucial in both personal growth and storytelling. Characters in "Rurik" embody this principle as they confront their destinies without looking back, embracing their immortal struggles head-on. This motif encourages readers to adopt a brave stance in the face of adversity, advocating for confrontation rather than evasion in life's journey.