The Angelus Bell

The Angelus Bell symbolizes Conway's own position in the narrative. Conway is a ghost, back from the dead on All Souls' Day; from this particular situation, Conway remembers his whole life, which make up the events of the novel. The Angelus Bell is Conway's "summons," which brings him back to the land of the living. Whenever the bell rings, Conway remembers that he is in his house, feeling that the day is "strange" (141); but whenever the bell is silent, Conway narrates the events of his life. In this way, the Angelus Bell serves to remind both the reader and Conway that something is not right about his presence in his house.

Agnes

Agnes symbolizes a problematic Christ-figure in Conway's narration. During the city demonstration, Agnes is "crucified" in order to help the people of the city protest the water infection. However, Agnes is crucified...