Eggs

Throughout the novel, eggs are used as a symbol of fertility and infertility. Most notably, this occurs when the narrator references instances in which the chickens have not laid eggs for significant periods of time. This is a symbolic parallel between the chickens and the narrator, who is unable to have children.

Apple peeler

The apple peeler the narrator describes from her kitchen drawer in Chapter 3 is a symbol of the simplicity the narrator craves in her life. The peeler is a complicated contraption, a "perfect machine" (10); however, the narrator notes that a paring knife is just as effective at peeling an apple. The narrator brings this appreciation for simplicity to her care for the chickens, largely incorporating objects found around the house rather than purchasing equipment. The narrator likely prefers simplicity because she finds it difficult to deal with her complicated emotions.

Cleaning

The narrator...