Chicago

Chicago symbolizes civic identity. For much of the protagonist’s time in Chicago, the protagonist wrestles with the idea of civic identity, especially regarding Chicago. The protagonist states that Chicago’s specific traits and energies are highly idiosyncratic and are directly linked with the city’s heterogeneous, multifaceted society.

Basketball

Basketball symbolizes the vicissitudes of youthful vigor. The protagonist enjoys playing basketball, and he often plays with young men who are members of local gangs. There appears to be a truce between gangs when playing basketball against one another. However, sometimes the peace is broken, such as the time when an aggressive player breaks the protagonist’s nose.

Baseball

Baseball symbolizes cultural unity. During the baseball season, the narration highlights the sense of shared focus among the characters and other Chicagoans on the progress of the White Sox. The protagonist often goes to White Sox games...