Consider the description of Mom given by the pharmacist in Part 2, Section 2. Discuss the metaphoric / symbolic value of the three main points of that description - her eyes (i.e. their warmth), her shoes (i.e. the fact that her children believe them to be a different color than the shoes she was actually wearing), and the wound in her foot (i.e. its depth and seriousness). In what way does each of these characteristics reflect and/or manifest an aspect of her inner life, the life her children have missed and are seeking to understand?

Discuss the symbolic / metaphoric implications of the persimmon tree given to Mom's youngest daughter in the Epilogue (see also "Quotes", p. 218). What is the relationship between the tree and its fate, and the identities/futures of Mom's children? between the tree and Mom herself?

What are your perceptions...