What metaphors are used in This Boy's Life by Tobias Wolff?

Moving trucks and travel become a metaphor for upheaval in Toby's life. His life is constantly in upheaval, making it extremely difficult for him to take a step back and examine himself. He and Rosemary are constantly on the move, which adds to this struggle. When they do settle down, they choose environments that are counterproductive to Toby's growth. Toby is placed with characters that work to break his self-confidence and pride, thereby making it impossible for Toby to really identify himself.