Hiram’s Ashes

Hiram’s ashes symbolize tragedy and remembrance. In service to their father’s memory, Lawton and Hunter decide to travel down the Altamaha River and scatter their father’s ashes in the ocean, for they appear to have a sense of love for their father despite their complex and turbulent relationship with him.

Hiram’s Boats

Hiram’s boats symbolize loss and adversity. After losing his first fishing boat in the 1970s, Hiram worked for many years on other men’s boats in order to save up for a new one with which to make a living. After he finally purchased a new boat, it was destroyed in a storm. This recurring adversity eventually made Hiram feel desperate and defeated.

The River

The Altamaha River symbolizes humanity’s complicated relationship with nature. For example, Hiram used to love and respect the river, but he...