Dutch Banker, “Switzerland”

In “Switzerland,” Soraya’s relationship with the Dutch baker symbolizes the ambiguous nature of personal control. When Soraya begins covertly dating a married man who is twice her age, the narrator believes Soraya to be totally in control of the situation. However, there is an ominous sense that Soraya is being manipulated by this older man.

Zusya, “Zusya on the Roof”

In “Zusya on the Roof,” the Jewish leader Zusya symbolizes the pressure and confusion of history and mortality. While being treated for cancer, Brodman hallucinates that he is the Jewish leader Zusya. After surviving the cancer, Brodman decides that he must occupy the position of personal/spiritual advisor to his grandson. However, he soon feels confused and insignificant in the light of history.

Boaz

In “I Am Asleep but My Heart Is Awake,” Boaz symbolizes the hardship of confronting difficult issues or emotions...