I'm attracted to writing about people who have the same kind of thematic threads running through their lives - because they are themes that are running through a lot of our lives. And I think that's true of Magnolia as well. American families have suffered from a lack of responsible fatherhood. Study after study reveals that children do best in two parent families. This film reflects this reality.
Children can reverse the effects of the sins of their parents however.
For if the child does what is right and keeps my laws, that child will surely live. The one who sins is the one who dies. The child will not be punished for the parent's sins, and the parent will not be punished for the child's sins. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways and live. Put all your rebellion behind you, and get for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.