This is an example of how the characters talk about sexuality in the book. The words gay or lesbian are never used, yet same-sex relationships are talked about openly. Even if they are still taboo, they're not entirely secret.

How does a person know when they're in love? It's a difficult emotion to define, which is why entire books are written about it. The only thing Therese can know for sure is that Carol makes her feel really good.

Richard is talking about gay and lesbian people. His reaction in the 1950s sounds like people today might talk about yetis or bigfoot. Heard of them? Sure, but we've never seen them in the wild.