Flying

In general, flying symbolizes freedom for the Strange Bird. After the Strange Bird escapes the laboratory, she marvels at her majestic ability to fly. Giddy, she flies around like a child. Also, her inability to fly in parts of the novel highlights her lack of freedom. Being locked in the prison, having a broken wing, or becoming a formless cloak are all examples of this lack of freedom because she cannot fly. After Wick modifies her, the Strange Bird is again able to fly, thus signifying her newfound freedom.

Chess

Chess symbolizes abuse and manipulation. The first appearance of this symbol occurs when the scientists are on drugs, specifically alkie sardines. The scientists gather the test animals into the blood room and force them to act as chess pieces. At another point in the novel, the chessboard reappears in the Strange Bird’s island, another symbol...