Abby's lung drawing

The drawing of lungs that Stella has hanging in her hospital room is a symbol of her sister Abby's devotion to her, and Abby's passionate hope that Stella would one day get a lung transplant. The drawing features a pair of lungs surrounded by flowers, and Stella explains that, "Some of the flowers haven't blossomed yet, and I can feel the promise of life just waiting to unfold from the tiny buds" (1). It is partially Stella's knowledge that Abby wanted a lung transplant for her so desperately that compels Stella to go through with the operation at the end of the novel.

Will's wallet

Will's wallet, which he uses to prop open the door on the hospital's rooftop, is a symbol of the disconnect in his relationship with his mother. The wallet is a Louis Vuitton, and Will declares it "a stupid gift to...