September 11

The September 11 attacks symbolize fear and destruction. The attacks serve as the thematic and narrative inciting incident for the novel, as the characters struggle to regain a sense of self and stability in a world that seems more sinister following the attacks.

The World Trade Center

The World Trade Center symbolizes American pride and ideals. After they are destroyed on 9/11, the characters feel that the United States consequently occupies a state of crisis. Just as the characters must adjust their personal outlooks, they must also adjust their view of the united States and its position in the world.

Poker

Poker symbolizes a craving for risk. Keith as a person is generally disposed towards the impulse to seek risk as a means of both comfort and excitement. He eventually begins spending most of his time playing poker in Las Vegas as a means of feeding his familiarity...