River

The emptying river is a symbol of loss. Recurring references to and descriptions of the drying river underscore Ransom's feelings of alienation and dislocation from his former life and self. The river's dwindling water supplies therefore parallel Ransom's string of personal losses.

Houseboat

Ransom's houseboat is symbolic of his past. Ransom initially buys the boat hoping to refresh his life after losing his job and wife. However, he ultimately fills the space with personal artifacts, all of which are reminders of his former life. The houseboat allows Ransom to surround himself with the vestiges of his past, thus revealing his reluctance to face the future.

Sea

The sea is symbolic of survival. When the Hamilton and Mount Royal residents run out of water, they head en masse to the ocean. They believe that if they can just reach the coastline, they will be able to sustain...