Staring contest

The anecdote Samantha mentions about Ava's staring contest with the gypsy on the Paris Metro is meant to symbolize Ava's mental and emotional fortitude, particularly in comparison to the Bunnies, who seem superficial and anemic in contrast. Ava was prepared to "fight to the death" (7) after the staring contest if necessary, but the gypsy backed down and exited the train, acknowledging Ava's superior strength.

Swan

The swan that lives in the pond on Warren's campus is a symbol of Ava, as this is where Samantha "met" her friend for the first time. The symbolism is most clear during the novel's climax when Samantha returns to Ava's house and discovers that Max has killed the swan, resulting in Samantha's realization that Ava had never existed. In the final pages, after graduation, Samantha returns to the pond and there is a new swan swimming in it. This...