John Crow

John Crow is the term used to describe the murder of crows that arrive in Gibbeah. The term could be considered symbolic of the mystical things that are going wrong in Gibbeah. The crows are considered to be “messengers of the Devil” and are present in huge numbers. They continue to appear at various times and in various places. The people are wary of them.

Doves

The doves are symbolic of hope and goodness, though they are not calm and tame as might be expected. They arrive when Pastor Bligh is being stoned to death. They maim and kill several people who participated in the murder. When a few doves are seen after the murder, the people are afraid because they remember the way the birds attacked. Then, the people begin to remember that doves are symbolic of hope and peace.

Obeah

The term "obeah...