Newcharlie

The name is symbolic of the changes Lafayette sees in his brother, Charlie, after Charlie returns from the Rahway Home for Boys. Lafayette says that Newcharlie says and does things differently after his return home for Rahway. The fact that Lafayette has a new name for his brother indicates the changes are dramatic and unwelcome.

Rahway Home for Boys

This is a detention center. It is symbolic of Charlie's struggle to move into adulthood in a positive way.

The Watermelons at Cecile's House

The watermelons at Cecile's house symbolize Cecile's feelings toward Lafayette and the fact that there is a woman who treats Lafayette like a mother might. Lafayette relates that she sometimes buys a watermelon and gives him the large center section, which is considered the best part of the melon. Lafayette uses this symbolism as a contrast, saying it seems someone has “scooped out...