Sun

The sun is a symbol of warmth and hope within the novel. When Bakha finds himself alone with a rare moment where he is not laboring, he often tilts his face toward the sun and finds peace in being alone with nature. He feels an equalizing power by being underneath the sun and free from judgment for his social status.

Smoking

Smoking is a signifier of class and British influence to Bakha. When he steals away to smoke, he feels like he is able to escape his caste woes for a short while. It also gives him a taste of what life must be like for the upper classes, fueling his worship of the British and their customs.

Sweets

Bakha covets sweets from the market when he receives his meager earnings. He feels so proud in the first moments when he receives the sweets because he...