Music

For Nora, the world of music, and specifically composing music, represents an escape from the racial scrutiny she endures while growing up. While Nora proves to be successful at this craft, it also ends up forming a wedge between her and her family, who believe it is a frivolous pursuit.

Television

For Maryam, American TV, which she uses to learn English, represents what she sees as the urge in American culture to publicly confess their issues. By the end of the novel, it is clear that Maryam has a different philosophy, as she kept the news of her husband's affair with Beatrice Newland to herself.

Beer

Driss' repeated purchase of beer, and Maryam's repeated habit of pouring the beer down the sink, represents the rift that grows between the married couple. The unhealthy dynamic that grows between them is how Driss rationalizes his eventual affair.

Curtains