The gun

The gun symbolizes the danger that comes with bad decisions. The robber and hostages all believe the gun is a toy, which causes them to be less scared of the whole situation, and not take it as seriously. While the robber herself was not dangerous, the gun, was in fact real, showing that the hostage situation was not guaranteed to end in such a harmless way.

The drawing

The drawing of the monkey, elk, and frog symbolizes the robbers love for her daughters. The robber carrying around the drawing with her everywhere shows how that familial love motivates all her actions.

The bridge

The bridge symbolizes the trauma of suicide. Many characters avoid the bridge due to the death of the man who jumped. The bridge also symbolizes the possibility of salvation, as it is where Jack saved Nadia.

Blood

Blood symbolizes the safety of...