Car Accidents

In the story collection, car accidents symbolize the uncertainty of life and wellbeing. For example, in “Chastity,” Sarah dies in a tragic car accident not long after marrying and giving birth to a child. Her husband, Benny, is heartbroken in the wake of this abrupt tragedy, which defies tenets of hope and traditional narrative.

Illness and Injury

Instances of illness and injury in the stories symbolize human frailty and vulnerability. Benny, for example, has a permanent limp after being injured by a mugger, while characters such as Dennis and Catherine die of terminal illnesses. In some ways, this emphasis on human frailty and vulnerability actually serves to highlight the preciousness of human life.

Addiction

In the story “Charity,” Matty’s addiction symbolizes the ways in which brain chemistry affects one’s actions and identity. After Matty becomes addicted to opioids, his altered brain chemistry forces...