Writing

Throughout the trilogy, the author uses Tove's writing practice to symbolize escapism. Whenever Tove feels overcome by fear, sorrow, or loneliness, she turns to writing. Wrapping herself in linguistic rhythms or storied imaginings, allows Tove to detach from reality and find the solace she cannot achieve in her real life.

Istedgade Apartment

The Istedgade Apartment where Tove spends the majority of her childhood with her parents, symbolizes entrapment. While living here, Tove constantly feels caught in an inescapable phase of life. The apartment is so small, no one in Tove's family has any privacy from one another. Both Tove and Edvin feel stifled by the space. Even after Tove and her parents move to Westend, Tove feels her childhood home looming.

The Evening Star

When Tove is a child, she is often plagued by nightmares. However, when she wakes up, she feels no reprieve from her...