Gustavo's Teeth

Gustavo's adult teeth symbolize the changes in his character and circumstances as his personal story evolves. Gustavo views his teeth as representative of his economic and social status. Thus, when he has enough money, he has them replaced. He then sells his teeth at auction, lying about each tooth's origin so as to exercise his new talents and strategies for auctioneering.

Marilyn Monroe's Teeth

Marilyn Monroe's teeth simultaneously symbolize Gustavo's self-perception and his self-delusion. Gustavo buys a set of teeth at auction that the auctioneer claims belonged to Marilyn Monroe. Gustavo believes this, buys the teeth, and has them surgically implanted in place of his own teeth. Jacobo eventually reveals to the reader that the teeth never actually belonged to Marilyn Monroe.

Dentures

Gustavo's dentures symbolize his true state of haplessness. Gustavo claims to be a successful person, and he attempts to reunite with his...