Dead Papa Toothwort

Dead Papa toothwort symbolizes the intersections and evolutions of both human history and natural history. Toothwort has existed for as long as England has, and he has memories of the many things he has observed over the course of history. His body also evolves to incorporate elements of nature and litter. He seems to bear both positive and negative personality traits, mirroring the positive and negative aspects of English history.

The Village

The village symbolizes the potential for rural life to be dysfunctional and insular. Neither Jolie, Robert, nor Lloyd ever feel completely welcome in the village; the villagers appear to view them with suspicion because they all moved to the village form the city. However, the three of them are sometimes able to acquire moments of happiness and solace via their relationships with each other and with Lanny.

Lanny’s Eccentricities

Lanny’s...