Sinkhole

The sinkhole that opens up in the earth at the beginning of Chapter 1 is a symbol of how the earth is beyond human control. It also functions as a foreboding, bad omen for the journey that Makina is about to undertake.

Family Plot of Land

The rumored family plot of land that Makina’s brother goes to find is a symbol of the many false dreams and hopes that bring immigrants northward into the United States. It is also a symbol of Makina’s brother’s naiveté, as he is the only one in the family to believe the thugs.

Lipstick

Makina’s lipstick, which one of the women borrows before crossing the border, is a symbol of femininity and of the need and desire to present their best self, even when crossing the border. Although the thought of makeup when illegally crossing a border seems...