Marlene

Throughout the novel, Marlene is primarily a symbol of inspiration and comfort for the family. Even obtaining Marlene was an unusual stroke of luck for the family – after a full year of despair and longing for their father, they finally found a sense of belonging by incorporating Marlene into the family. Several plot points re-emphasize Marlene’s symbolic role as a source of comfort on the family’s journey. First, when the family is escaping Dresden and they suddenly find Marlene, it gives them the strength and inspiration they need to begin their difficult and uncertain journey. When Karli is nearing death while the family is hiking, Marlene allows him to ride on her and transfers her symbolic role of a comforter to a literal one of protector. Similarly, at many points on the trail she provides fresh inspiration and strength for the family through her...