Airplane

The airplane symbolizes sociopolitical anxiety. After Henry sees a plane that is partially on fire and heading towards Heathrow Airport, he worries that it is a terrorist attack. He soon learns that it was simply a non-fatal mechanical failure, but his fears still reflect the terrorism-related fears that plagued many people in 2003.

Protest

The anti-war protest symbolizes the divided nature of public opinion regarding the invasion of Iraq. In London, a large protest is organized in order to express dissent for the planned invasion. Daisy is very much on the side of the protesters, but Henry is ambivalent. Due to moral and political ambiguities, Henry is unable to firmly take a position for or against the war.

Neurosurgery

Neurosurgery symbolizes the will to help others and understand human experience. Henry derives a deep sense of satisfaction and professional fulfillment from his job as a neurosurgeon. In...