Squatting Ghoul

Brian's Squatting Ghoul role symbolizes submission. Because Brian knows what will happens if he misbehaves, he happily submits to the parameters of his assigned role. Indeed, he does not even stand during practicing when his backs and legs ache. The image of squatting symbolizes Brian's compliant character. He refuses to defy the system because of fear.

Above

The upper recesses of the Region, referred to as Above throughout the story, symbolize illusion. The governing authorities of Brian's world have created the illusion of peace and calm, via a series of elaborate lies and deceptions. When Rolph climbs up the Egress Spout, however, he discovers that there is no Above. Above is only a room of dead bodies, sealed beneath a stone roof. The Above realm is also representative of the collective cultural consciousness and a nation's willingness to preserve an illusion in the name of...