In "The Poisonwood Bible," the character Axelroot embodies a relaxed attitude towards marriage, suggesting he adopts local customs, such as polygamy. This reflects a cultural misunderstanding, as he seems oblivious to the Christian values that prioritize monogamy. His behavior highlights the contrasts between different societal norms and raises questions about cultural integration and respect for established beliefs.

The humorous yet pointed observation about Axelroot showcases the friction between traditional Christian views on marriage and the more fluid familial arrangements seen in some other cultures. It emphasizes the theme of cultural clash that runs throughout the narrative, illustrating how characters grapple with their identities and beliefs in unfamiliar contexts.