The Geese

The geese in the park symbolize home. Whenever Casey sees them, she feels at peace. They often allow her to feel close to her mother, who also represents home to Casey. At the end of the novel, Casey wonders which geese will stay in the city instead of migrating. In this moment, Casey seems to find peace within herself, and her present moment, finally at home in her own body.

Casey's Novel

Casey's novel symbolizes emotional processing. By writing a story inspired by her mother's life, Casey is able to make sense of who her mother was, and with losing her. The novel engages Casey's writing practice, and reconnects her with herself, allowing her to understand what is most important to her.

The Bees

Images of bees represent Casey's fear and anxiety. At the start of the novel, Casey tells Luke she hates bees. In...