The Cup

The America's regatta Cup symbolizes desire. Throughout the novel, Ambrose Lutterworth is desperate to retain his title as Keeper of the Cup. Because Ambrose has been regarded as an unaccomplished coward throughout his life, he believes that keeping hold of the Cup will alter his reputation. Repeated references to Ambrose's distorted relationship with the Cup illustrate the ways in which desire defines his perception of the world.

Black Magic

The New Zealander's boat Black Magic symbolizes superiority. Ambrose is determined to destroy Black Magic because he believes the crime will allow him to retain the Cup and thus prove his self-worth. Despite all of his efforts, Black Magic remains intact and wins the regatta, thus proving New Zealand's racing superiority over America.

Ambrose's Smoking Jacket

Ambrose's smoking jacket symbolizes loneliness. In almost every scene where the narrator depicts Ambrose alone, he is wearing his smoking...