please explain me theme of chapter deep water

The theme of Douglas' work is, "fear" and his "triumph" over it. The fear of water is instilled in Douglas in his childhood The protagonist suffers a misadventure of drowning in a pool at young age. The near death experience instills phobia in his heart making it impossible for him to enjoy water and water sports. It takes him years to train himself and win over his fear. At last with the help of the instructor he triumphs over water.