The Senator

The Senator is symbolic of hope. David quickly grows attached to the Senator, because he believes he will indeed create change for America and for the Black community in particular. Over the course of the Senator's presidential campaign, however, the Senator becomes increasingly unreal to David. He realizes that he is just a symbol, and that his election might not in fact affect any change.

Campaign

The campaign is symbolic of structure. David readily accepts his fundraising job with the campaign, because his life has felt meaningless since he dropped out of school. The campaign offers him an escape from his immobilizing circumstances and affords him the illusion of meaning and purpose.

Regina's Apartment

Regina's apartment symbolizes authenticity. The messy space comforts David because it feels like a genuine representation of Regina's personality. Just as she does not try to clean up her living space...