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Baltimore

A primary milieu of the novel, this Eastern seaboard city is notable for being deeply rooted in United States history and for its high poverty levels.

Blank Eyes

A drawing tic of the brother of one of the narrators, this feature is repeatedly noted in conversation as well as in art within the work.

Carousel

This carnival ride is a staple of childhood experiences in the United States, one noted for its placidity.

Cutting

This self-destructive behavior is resorted to by a narrator and several ancillary characters as a bonding ritual, among others.

Dandelion

A commonplace plant often regarded as a nuisance, this plant is transformed in description into a mimicry of the heavens, as well as being usefully eaten.

Floating-arms Trick

A favored childhood game of several characters, this activity involves pressing against a doorframe and stepping forward. In both its liminal and hallucinatory qualities, it...

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